DALLAS (AP) — The Dallas Mavericks edged the Charlotte Hornets 103-96 on February 27, 2025, showcasing standout performances by Kyrie Irving and Moses Brown. This key victory is important as the Mavericks strive to improve their position in the competitive Western Conference.
Kyrie Irving played a pivotal role, scoring 25 points, with 18 of those coming during the high-stakes second half. His impressive shooting and resilience were instrumental as he grabbed nine rebounds, helping to solidify the Mavericks' lead. Irving's ability to remain composed under pressure, especially down the stretch, was on full display, culminating with his late-game contributions.
Meanwhile, Moses Brown made his first start for the Mavericks and made it one to cherish. The big man logged 31 minutes and poured in 20 points on 9-of-14 shooting, along with 11 rebounds, marking his first double-double of the season. Brown's strong presence not only enhanced the Mavericks’ scoring but also provided them with much-needed defensive capabilities, including two blocks and three steals. This performance came as Brown is on his penultimate game of a 10-day contract, making it all the more significant for him personally.
The Hornets had some bright spots of their own, highlighted by Mark Williams, who led his team with 26 points and 16 rebounds. Unfortunately, the Hornets are currently mired in struggles, having lost five consecutive games and 16 of their last 19. Miles Bridges contributed to their score with 20 points and 12 rebounds, but it wasn’t enough to change their fortunes.
Compounding the Hornets’ woes is the absence of star player LaMelo Ball, who missed his second consecutive game due to ankle injuries. The Hornets have struggled greatly without him, going 1-21 when he does not play. They were recently matching their franchise-long road run with nine consecutive games, but their only victory during this stretch has deepened their challenges.
This victory propels the Mavericks to a record of 32-28, placing them ninth in the Western Conference. They are now just one game out of the last guaranteed playoff spot which increases the stakes for their upcoming matches.
A key moment of the game occurred late when Irving missed a pivotal 3-pointer with just over two minutes left, yet he made up for it by tipping the ball out to Klay Thompson. Thompson’s subsequent right-corner 3-pointer extended the Mavericks' lead to 97-91 with just over 1:48 to play, showcasing the team’s capability to capitalize on offensive rebounds and create second-chance opportunities.
Looking forth, both teams have challenging schedules upcoming. The Hornets will return home for a five-game homestand, beginning against the Washington Wizards, hoping to rectify their current losing streak and get back on track. The Mavericks, meanwhile, will look to build momentum against the Milwaukee Bucks, where maintaining energy and focus will be key to their playoff aspirations. This game not only serves as another notch on the win column for the Mavericks but also as a significant confidence booster as they navigate through the season's final stretch.