There’s something about playing in Orlando that agrees with Dirk Nowitzki and the Dallas Mavericks.
Nowitzki’s game-winning bank shot with 5.9 seconds left powered the Mavericks to a wild 100-98 victory over Orlando for their sixth straight victory there.
In the process, the defending NBA champs battled back from a 15-point deficit to claim the victory. It was only their second victory in 21 games where they have won when trailing in the fourth quarter.
“We almost looked down a little bit,” Nowitzki told the Associated Press. “Guys were putting their heads down. But we’re a too good for that. We have to keep competing. I’m proud of the guys.”
STUDS
Dallas F Dirk Nowitzki: Notched a game-winning jumper with 5.9 seconds left, part of a 28-point effort that powered the Mavericks past Orlando. Nowitzki was plus-3 in the game.
Miami G Dwyane Wade: Went for 30 points, six rebounds, six assists, three steals and was plus-16 in the Heat’s victory at Toronto.
New Jersey F Gerald Wallace: Notched 24 points, 18 rebounds, six steals, five assists and was plus-3 in the Nets’ victory at Golden State.
Miami F Chris Bosh: Produced 30 points, eight rebounds, three assists, three blocks and was plus-17 in the Heat’s triumph at Toronto.
Milwaukee G Brandon Jennings: Went for 28 points, six assists, four steals and was plus-23 in the Bucks’ victory at Cleveland.
New Jersey G Deron Williams: Overcame a rough shooting night to dish off 20 assists and was plus-5 in the Nets’ victory at Golden State.
DUDS
Utah C Derrick Favors: Missed all 13 shots from the field in the Jazz’s loss to Sacramento.
Golden State F David Lee: Scored 27 points, but had seven turnovers and was minus-3 in the Warriors’ loss to New Jersey.
New Jersey G Anthony Morrow: Missed all six shots in the Nets’ victory at Golden State.
Cleveland F Luke Walton: Missed all five shots and was minus-16 in the Cavaliers’ loss to Milwaukee.
Orlando G J.J. Redick: Missed all six field goals with three turnovers and was minus-11 in the Magic’s loss to Dallas.