Jaden Hardy provides lone bright spot as Dallas Mavericks 7-game win streak snapped

The Dallas Mavericks forget to bring their jumpers as they lost to the Boston Celtics 124-95 on Thursday night. Luka Doncic and company shot just 37.8 percent from the field and 21.9 percent from 3-point range in a forgettable night at the American Airlines Center. The Celtics dominated to drop Dallas to 22-17 on the season.

Doncic struggled on Thursday night. He got some treatment on his leg mid-game and appeared to be under the weather. The 23-year-old still managed to put up 23 points, nine rebounds, and three assists in 31 minutes of action, but he made just seven of his 23 field goals.

The lone bright spot for the Mavericks on Dec. 5 was rookie Jaden Hardy. The 20-year-old got an opportunity to play because the team was struggling, and he made the most of his chance. Here is a look back at his performance before looking ahead at what is next for the Mavericks.

Jaden Hardy provides lone bright spot as Dallas Mavericks 7-game win streak snapped

The Mavs needed to find Hardy some playing time. The 20-year-old has stayed with the team as three players remain out with injuries, but opportunities to get him into the game have been slim because every game has been down to the wire. He needs to play to develop, and head coach Jason Kidd took full advantage of the chance against the Celtics.

Hardy played the final 15:05 on Thursday night where he went off for 15 points, two rebounds, and two assists. The 6’4 guard made five of his eight field goals, including going three for three from 3-point range. See one of his outside makes below.

The 20-year-old was aggressive on Thursday night, and he did plenty of work with the Celtics starters still on the floor. Jaden Hardy is a special talent. He just needs time to develop. The Dallas Mavericks got a steal in the second round of the draft, and it was fantastic to see him shine on Dec. 5 when he was finally given extended run.

The Mavs face the New Orleans Pelicans at the American Airlines Center on Saturday night. Zion Williamson will be out, and Luka Doncic will be eager to get Dallas back in the win column, so be sure to tune in and enjoy the game.