Wesley Matthews is back.
Just two nights removed from a less than stellar performance against the Houston Rockets which led Matthews to declare “I suck right now,” the guard bounced back in a big way en route to a 116-104 Dallas victory over the Washington Wizards.
Along with keeping Dallas (12-9) in the game throughout the first half, Matthews tied the Maverick’s single game record for three pointers with 10. He finished with 36 points, six rebounds and five assists.
Matthews said he did not make any changes in the past 48 hours other than continuing to persevere.
“Just belief,” Matthews said. “Continuing to believe and remember this is a blessing. I just needed to have fun with it.”
Washington (8-10) played small ball the entire game which forced head coach Rick Carlisle to quickly counter, inserting Jeremy Evans and John Jenkins into the lineup. The move was successful, and Carlisle dubbed the win a total team effort.
“Everyone was terrific,” Carlisle said. “But [Evans and Jenkins] were huge. They went small early and those two came into the game. Evans hit the dagger three. A lot of guys contributed to us getting the win.”
The small lineups provided Matthews with ample opportunities to score the ball, and Matthews said he simply took advantage.
“I just wanted the ball every time,” Matthews said. “Every time it left my hand it felt good. I just let it fly.”
Carlisle agreed.
“Our whole team was due for a shot making night and [Matthews] led the way,” Carlisle said. “We all kept encouraging him. He just has to keep staying the course. Great win for us.”
The win on Sunday marked the 11th consecutive time the Mavericks have beaten the Wizards.
Next Up: Dallas travels to take on the New York Knicks tomorrow on the second night of a back-to-back. Tipoff is set for 6:30 p.m. EST.
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