Mavericks: J.J. Barea now fifth all-time on franchise’s games played list

Dallas Mavericks guard J.J. Barea had an outstanding game against the Timberwolves on Feb. 24 where he made a bit of history. Learn more here.

The Dallas Mavericks hosted the Minnesota Timberwolves on Monday night. The Mavs were looking to get back in the win column after a disappointing loss against the Hawks. Minnesota was struggling to find any success after dropping 17 of their 18 games.

The Mavericks jumped out to early lead thanks in part to J.J. Barea. He had been out of the rotation recently, but Jalen Brunson injured his shoulder and was ruled out for at least five games. Barea entered for Luka Doncic with 2:19 remaining in the first and Dallas up three points. By the end of the period, the Mavs had a 14-point advantage.

The veteran worked his second unit magic fans have grown accustomed to over the years. He carved up the defense. Barea exploits any open look and makes the opposition pay for every mistake.

It was a fantastic performance by the 35-year-old. He finished with 12 points, three rebounds, and eight assists in 22 minutes of action in the 139-123 victory. The Mavericks outscored the Timberwolves by 18 points during Barea’s time on the floor. He made a bit of history too.

5th all-time in Mavs games played

J.J. Barea passed Michael Finley for sole possession of fifth all-time in the Mavericks games played list. Monday was his 627th game with the franchise. Barea will likely end his career in that position. He is 238 behind Rolando Blackman for fourth on the list. No player is catching Dirk Nowitzki and his 1,522 games played with the Mavericks.

It was awesome to see Barea ball out on a night where he made a small piece of history. Remember, he spent three seasons in Minnesota too. J.J. moved on after the championship season in 2011 and returned for the 2014-2015 campaign. Barea played 194 games for the Timberwolves during that time.

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