Mavericks still searching for rhythm, Hawks rally in Orlando, Magic preach communication
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Dallas — The Mavericks surrendered an early 14-point cushion and dropped their home opener to the Washington Wizards, 117-107, on Friday night. Dallas poured in 35 points in the first quarter but managed only 17 in the second, watching the lead slip away as Washington drilled 15 of 36 attempts from beyond the arc and converted 21 Maverick turnovers into 21 points.
Forward Anthony Davis paced Dallas with 27 points, 13 rebounds and four assists, though he was charged with five of the giveaways. P.J. Washington finished with 18 points and nine boards but committed eight turnovers, while No. 1 overall pick Cooper Flagg provided a late spark, scoring 11 of his 18 points in the fourth quarter. The Mavericks fell to 0-2 as they continue to search for offensive cohesion.
Hawks edge Magic despite short-handed lineup
Orlando — Atlanta collected its first victory of the season by outlasting the Magic, 111-107. Playing without starters Zaccharie Risacher (ankle) and Kristaps Porziņģis (illness), the Hawks leaned on Trae Young’s 25 points and six assists and received 19 points from Nickeil Alexander-Walker off the bench.
Onyeka Okongwu delivered key minutes in the frontcourt, and rookie Mouhamed Gueye contributed 13 points and eight rebounds while disrupting Paolo Banchero defensively. Atlanta trailed by double digits in the third quarter before Young orchestrated a late charge, sealing the win with clutch free throws in the closing seconds.
Magic stress dialogue after narrow defeat
Following the loss, Magic center Wendell Carter Jr. said any early-season issues can be fixed through open communication. “Because we all want to win, we’re able to have those conversations with one another, constructive criticism. And we just keep it moving,” he told reporters.
Head coach Jamahl Mosley was more measured. When asked about the team’s composure, he paused for eight seconds before replying, “There were moments that we got together, and then there were moments that we could be better. That’s the truth.”
Source: Hoops Wire
