The Dallas Mavericks maintained their grip on the fourth seed in the Western Conference by edging the Phoenix Suns 98-89 behind a balanced scoring effort led by Kyrie Irving and a dominant performance from Maxi Kleber. Irving poured in 20 points, while Durant scored 35 in defeat.
Dallas’s threes reigned early, with Irving hitting three straight to give the Mavericks a 14-4 lead in the first quarter. However, they lost focus after a Suns timeout, allowing Phoenix to get back into the game. The Mavericks regained control through strong defensive play and role player production from Kleber, Marshall, and Powell.
Kleber’s 15-point outburst in his first game since May, highlighted by a dunk, marked a welcome return for the veteran forward. His performance raised hopes that he can contribute more significantly over the coming stretch for the Mavericks. Irving, meanwhile, struggled with his shooting after an incredible start, but still managed to finish with 40 minutes.
The Mavericks’ defense was lockdown in the second quarter, and they held off Phoenix’s rally in the third to maintain a double-digit lead. However, Durant brought the Suns back into the game with free throws, leaving Dallas trailing by just single digits entering the final frame. The Mavericks responded with clutch scoring from Klay Thompson, who hit two distance shots to pull them ahead.
The Suns were eventually contained by Daniel Gafford’s dunk via Kleber, securing a 15-point victory for the Mavericks. With Luka Doncic and Dereck Lively absent, Dallas’s bench unit proved vital in the win.
Source: https://www.mavsmoneyball.com/2024/12/27/24330636/mavericks-vs-suns-final-score-recap-98-89-dallas-phoenix-kyrie-irving-kevin-durant