There weren’t any “Fire Nico” chants or mock funerals at the American Airlines Center on Wednesday night, but one thing remained the same: the Mavericks’ offense continues to struggle despite showing flashes of potential.
Dallas failed to have a player reach 20 points, with five players shooting under 50% from the field in a 123-114 loss to the Phoenix Suns. This defeat marks the Mavs’ sixth loss in their last seven games.
The Mavericks managed to cut the Suns’ lead to three points in the fourth quarter but ultimately could not take the lead. P.J. Washington helped spark an early 18-9 run before leaving the game with a shoulder injury that sidelined him for the remainder of the night.
Mavericks rookie forward Cooper Flagg (3-9) also suffered a left shoulder injury. He briefly went to the locker room before returning to the game. The 18-year-old was one of the few bright spots for Dallas, finishing with 16 points, six rebounds, six assists, three steals, and two blocks against the Suns (7-5).
D’Angelo Russell’s struggles continued as well. He played only 14 minutes, recording five points and three assists.
On the Suns’ side, Klay Thompson made a season-high six 3-pointers and led the team with 19 points.
Looking ahead, the Mavericks will face the LA Clippers on Friday in their second NBA Cup game of the season. With Washington’s potential absence looming, Dallas will need someone to step up and fill the gap.
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