Following a bounce back win against the Suns on Friday after a loss against the Clippers on Monday, the Mavericks found themselves going toe-to-toe against the other Los Angeles team today in the Lakers.

Though the Lakers hold the best record in the league and went into today’s game with a 10-game win streak, the Mavericks looked like the best team on the floor today, winning 114-100.

Dallas dominated the second half after going into the third quarter down three points. Luka led the way with 27 points, 9 rebounds, and 10 assists. Delon Wright finished with 17 points, 5 rebounds, 9 assists, and 4 steals off the bench.

Third Quarter Luka/Defense

The legend strikes again. Something about the third quarter just sparks Luka’s play. Luka started the first half slow but it was only a matter of time before #77 found his groove. Today, he had 16 third quarter points, which helped the Mavs take a 15-point lead into the fourth quarter.

On top of Luka’s third quarter heroics, the Maverick defense in the third was phenomenal, holding the Lakers to only 17 points. During Dallas’ 17-0 run, LeBron and company couldn’t get it going as the Mavericks were flying around on defense and truly mucking up the game a bit. The momentum formed by the Mavericks defense in the third quarter lasted throughout the remainder of the game to give Dallas the huge win.

The “Others”

Tonight’s game was about the Maverick role players, specifically Dwight Powell, Delon Wright, and Justin Jackson.

Powell, who has struggled to start the season, had his best game of the season, scoring 15 points and grabbing 9 rebounds. Dwight was as active as he’s been all season, getting his hand on several loose balls and rebounds as well as finishing his groove on the offensive end.

In a homecoming game, Delon was fantastic off the bench. As stated before, 17 points, 5 rebounds, 9 assists, and 4 steals for Wright off the bench. Wright also shot the deep ball well, making three of his six attempts. When Delon’s confidence on the offensive end is strong, so is the Mavericks chances to win.

Lastly, Justin Jackson just comes on the floor and fills it up. Playing spotty minutes so far this season, Jackson has been able to make timely buckets for Dallas. Whether it’s slashing to the rim or knocking down a deep ball, which he’s shooting 45% from, Jackson’s offensive flexibility can continue to be a huge plus for the Mavs off the bench.