Mavericks dominate second half in comeback win over Heat in Miami

The Dallas Mavericks gave up 59 first-half points to the Miami Heat as they trailed by eight at the break. The Heat held Luka Doncic to just ten points on nine field-goal attempts as they mixed defensive coverages and schemes. Miami appeared to be in the driver’s seat on their home floor, but never count out Luka and the Mavs.

Dallas tightened up their defense and used a team effort to defeat the Heat on Feb. 15. Miami scored just 40 second-half points, and the Mavericks had five players in double-figures as they picked up the 107-99 win in South Beach. Davis Bertans had 12 points, including three 3-pointers in 13 minutes in his Mavericks debut. Spencer Dinwiddie produced five assists as his ball-handling and playmaking played a key role in keeping the team’s offense moving.

It was far from the best game from Doncic, but he drew the defensive attention and others stepped up on Tuesday night. Here is a closer look at the Mavericks' performance and what’s next for the team.

Dallas Mavericks dominate second half to defeat Heat in Miami

The Mavs were shorthanded on Feb. 15 as Tim Hardaway Jr., Reggie Bullock, Trey Burke, Marquese Chriss, and Theo Pinson were all ruled out before tipoff. Their two recent trade additions made their debuts, but Dallas needed others to step up on Tuesday night.

Every player made important plays to defeat the Heat, who were atop the Eastern Conference standings at the start of the game. Luka Doncic led the Mavericks in scoring with 21 points, but he finished just five of 19 from the field. The 22-year-old made nine free throws to boost his number, and he chipped in ten rebounds and six assists in Miami.

Maxi Kleber had 19 points and five blocks in 34 minutes off the bench on Tuesday night. He was making plays all over the court and keyed the second-half comeback with his rim protection. Head coach Jason Kidd played Kleber more minutes than he would have liked, but it was impossible to take Maxi out of the game because he played so well down the stretch.

Jalen Brunson also had 19 points and chipped in six dimes in 38 minutes of action. His playmaking was important with the Heat doing everything they can to take Luka out of the game.

The Heat give up 3-pointers, and Dallas made them pay on Feb. 15 by shooting 18 of 41 from long range. The Mavericks missed their jumpers in the first half, but turned it around over the final 24 minutes to pick up their 34th win of the 2021-2022 season.

The Dallas Mavericks play their final game before the All-Star break on Thursday night in New Orleans against the Pelicans. Expect Luka Doncic to have another monster performance as he heads to his third straight All-Star game. Fans won’t want to miss the contest, so be sure to tune in and enjoy some Mavericks basketball.