Dallas Mavericks: Kristaps Porzingis shines, grabs belt in win over Thunder

The Dallas Mavericks dominated the Oklahoma City Thunder 127-106 on Monday night. Luka Doncic and Kristaps Porzingis returned to the lineup as they snapped a two-game losing streak. The Mavs shot over 53 percent from the field as they controlled every aspect of the game on March 29. Doncic had 25 points and did not miss a beat.

Porzingis was incredible against the Thunder. He had 20 points, nine rebounds, five assists, one steal, and two blocks. KP finished nine of 15 from the field including nailing two 3-pointers. The Mavericks outscored Oklahoma City by 26 points during the Unicorn’s 27 minutes on the floor on Monday night.

The 25-year-old had it locked in on both ends. He earned the Defensive Player of the Game belt as he lifted the Mavs to the blowout victory. Here is a closer look at his performance and what to expect from KP going forward.

Kristaps Porzingis shines as Dallas Mavericks dominate Thunder

Porzingis had it going from the opening tip on March 29. He had 12 points and five rebounds in the first quarter, including this impressive driving dunk.

It was the third straight game that KP scored double-digits in the opening period. He had done it just three times in his first 26 games this season, according to Mavs PR.

The Unicorn did not stop there. He stayed aggressive and continued to wreak havoc on the Thunder. See Porzingis throw down an alley-oop from Dorian Finney-Smith below.

He was outstanding on the defensive end too. Zinger blocked two shots and did well protecting the rim. He was also a force on the glass and produced a steal. Porzingis’ performance earned him the Defensive Player of the Game belt on March 29.

KP did not play a second in the fourth quarter on Monday night, and he still managed to score 20 points and tie his career-high in assists for a game. It was an incredible night for Porzingis. He missed the Mavericks last game to rest on the second night of a back-to-back. The plan paid off against the Thunder.

The Unicorn is locking in as the Dallas Mavericks attempt to climb the standings down the stretch. They have an advantageous schedule, but the Mavs need Doncic and Porzingis firing on cylinders to make a run. It appears the best is still yet to come, so stay tuned.