CHARLOTTE, N.C. — In a thrilling matchup on Monday, the Charlotte Hornets managed to secure a 110-105 victory over the Dallas Mavericks, marking their third consecutive win, which is their longest winning streak of the season. Both LaMelo Ball and Miles Bridges were instrumental in this success, each contributing 23 points to the scoreboard. Nick Smith Jr. also played a significant role, adding 19 points, whereas Mark Williams, despite dealing with foul issues, achieved a double-double with 13 points and 13 rebounds for Charlotte, which now holds a record of 11-28.
On the other side of the court, Kyrie Irving led the Mavericks with an impressive 33 points, while Daniel Gafford made a splash with a career-high performance of 31 points and 15 rebounds. However, the Mavericks have struggled lately, losing four of their last five games and standing at 23-20.
The game saw the Mavericks trailing as the final quarter rolled in. However, Irving, who scored 26 of his points after halftime, took charge, quickly sinking two 3-pointers and adding a free throw after drawing a foul from Josh Green during a 3-point attempt. Despite this comeback effort, the Hornets regained the lead for good after Smith hit a critical corner three-pointer with just over four minutes left in the game.
Ball, who showcased his sharp shooting with five 3-pointers in the first half, had an opportunity to help cement the victory in the closing seconds but unfortunately missed the latter end of a one-and-one free-throw situation. Although Klay Thompson attempted to force overtime with a 3-point shot from the right side but missed, Green managed to secure the win for Charlotte by hitting two free throws.
**Key Insights:**
For the Mavericks, the absence of Luka Doncic, sidelined since Christmas due to a left calf strain, continues to challenge Dallas’ depth, which has become evident as they only managed to score 14 points from their bench. The Hornets faced difficulties as Williams picked up his fourth foul early in the second quarter, necessitating a heavy reliance on Moussa Diabate for the remainder of the game.
**Crucial Moment:**
With 26 seconds remaining and the Mavericks down by two, Irving attempted to drive toward the basket but his pass to an open Naji Marshall in the corner went astray, leading to a crucial turnover.
**Statistical Highlight:**
The Hornets capitalized on the Mavericks’ mistakes, scoring 23 points off 13 turnovers committed by Dallas.
Looking ahead, both teams are set to play again on Wednesday night, with the Mavericks welcoming the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Hornets traveling to face the Memphis Grizzlies.
