Mavericks guard Tim Hardaway Jr. goes from liability to key piece in win over Pistons

The Dallas Mavericks are rinsing the bad taste that a recent three-game losing streak left in the mouths of the team. Ultimately, reigniting another win streak with a 142-124 win against the Detroit Pistons.

As usual, Kyrie Irving and Luka Doncic led in the scoring column. Doncic finished with 39 points, and Irving tallied 21 points. Beyond the two stars, the team had five players in double figures, and Luka became the first player to etch in six-straight 30-point triple-doubles.

Since returning from the All-Star break, the Mavericks have been trying to get guys acclimated and reconditioned. In particular, fans saw the Mavericks' third scoring option, Tim Hardaway Jr., enter a slump.

Mavericks guard Tim Hardaway Jr. goes from liability to key piece in win over Pistons

Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd has spoken on the recent struggles of Hardaway Jr. and has implemented recent game plans that aim to get Hardaway Jr., more involved.

Everyone is looking for Hardaway Jr. to produce and impact the game like he did earlier this season. Finally, against the Pistons, we saw glimpses of plays that reminded us of how good Tim Hardaway Jr. can be.

Beyond knocking down some key 3-pointers, it seems as if Hardaway Jr. has focused on his shot selection and keeping the ball movement up. There were multiple shots Tim passed up that fans are used to seeing him take.

On a night where the offense scored 142 points, the team should be trying to replicate tonight's performance. If Hardaway Jr. can continue to be more involved in the offense like he was tonight, that'll be huge for the Mavs down the stretch.

Hardaway Jr. finished with 17 points and four made threes, leading the Mavericks in bench scoring. The Western Conference standings are tighter than ever, and with less than 20 games remaining, this would be a crucial stretch for Hardaway Jr. to exit his slump. His ability to knock down contested shots and space the floor for our stars will be a deciding factor for the Mavs. Stay tuned for more on Tim Hardaway Jr., and the Dallas Mavericks.