The Dallas Mavericks suffered a heart-wrenching 135-131 defeat against the Indiana Pacers on the night of March 19, 2025, in Indianapolis, a game that highlighted both their determination and struggles as they attempt to secure a playoff spot in a challenging Western Conference.
Despite battling through injuries and a depleted roster, the Mavericks managed to take an 11-point lead with just five minutes remaining in the game, only to collapse in the final moments. This latest loss brings Dallas’ record to 33-37, marking their ninth defeat in the last ten games and further complicating their play-in scenario. Meanwhile, the Pacers improved to 39-29, consolidating their position in the Eastern Conference playoffs.
Andrew Nembhard proved pivotal for the Pacers, scoring 22 points and hitting a crucial three-pointer with just 14.7 seconds left to give his team a 131-130 lead. The Pacers, who seemed to be in control early on, nearly squandered a 16-point lead but managed to rally late in the game. Pascal Siakam also shined in his return, contributing 29 points, while Bennedict Mathurin scored 23 points, including 16 in the fourth quarter, as he hit all four field goal attempts and made all eight of his free throws.
The Mavericks were fielding a significantly shorthanded squad, missing key players such as Klay Thompson, who sat out due to illness, and Kyrie Irving, who has been sidelined for the season with a torn ACL. Anthony Davis, another star acquisition, dealt with an adductor strain that has kept him out following his one appearance since being traded from the Los Angeles Lakers. His absence has been particularly felt along with that of Dereck Lively II, also out with injury.
With the game winding down, the Mavericks, who initially seemed to regain momentum after trailing by as much as 16 points, faced critical turnovers that ultimately cost them the game. In the final 60 seconds, they coughed up the ball multiple times, including a crucial turnover from Max Christie that led to Nembhard’s decisive bucket. Jaden Hardy, struggling with impacts from his own performance, committed an offensive foul that further hindered Dallas's chances as they shifted into a one-and-done offensive strategy in the closing minutes.
The Pacers capitalized on these mistakes and reasserted themselves in crunch time, once again showing their resilience. The Mavericks, despite the late-game failure, displayed an impressive offensive capability at times throughout the game, especially in the paint, where they scored a significant 58 points compared to Indiana's 50.
Moving forward, the Mavericks will need to regroup as they continue their campaign to secure a place in the playoff picture. Coach Jason Kidd faces a herculean task of keeping the team's spirits high while managing a roster battered by injuries. After the game, Kidd acknowledged the persistent struggles the team is facing and emphasized the need for collective effort as they work to turn their fortunes around.
“We fought through adversity but just couldn’t finish. We need to learn how to execute better in crucial moments,” Kidd said. His remarks reflect the broader challenge the Mavericks face at this point in the season.
In addition to Thompson, Irving, and Davis, the Mavericks are also missing several other key players including Brandon Williams, who has a hamstring issue, and Caleb Martin, sidelined with a hip strain. Thus, the team is left with a thin roster that has been forced to depend on younger players, which includes Spencer Dinwiddie, who contributed significantly with 12 assists and just one turnover during the game.
The Mavericks’ woes have triggered discussions regarding their current roster construction, especially after trading away franchise star Luka Doncic for more depth. However, the injuries have complicated this strategy, leaving them at a crossroads as they look towards the final stretch of the season.
Across the league, the Phoenix Suns are closely watching the Mavericks’ misfortunes. With this recent victory, the Pacers not only secured their win but also set off a ripple effect, enabling Phoenix to take one step closer to overtaking Dallas for the final play-in spot.
The Suns will need to capitalize on every opportunity, starting with their upcoming game against the Chicago Bulls, who have won five of their last six games and are also in the play-in conversation within the Eastern Conference.
The NBA rollercoaster continues as teams jostle for position in the playoffs. For Dallas, each upcoming game becomes a must-win, and the time to rally is now.
