In a stellar performance, the Dallas Mavericks secured their ninth victory in 12 games, defeating the Washington Wizards and showcasing the remarkable synergy between star player Luka Doncic and rookie center Dereck Lively II.

Following a setback in New Orleans, the Mavericks bounced back on the second night of a back-to-back, clinching a 130-117 win and elevating their record to an impressive 9-3 for the season.

While Sixth Man of the Year candidate Tim Hardaway Jr. played a significant role with a game-high 31 points off the bench, the emerging connection between Luka Doncic and rookie starting center Dereck Lively II stole the spotlight.

During the third quarter, Doncic and Lively displayed an impressive pick-and-roll performance, dismantling the Washington Wizards’ defense in just three minutes of actual gameplay. Doncic contributed 26 points and 10 assists in 32 minutes, while Lively achieved a career-high 17 points, nine rebounds, and two blocks in a mere 24 minutes.

Expressing his satisfaction after the game, Lively remarked, “It feels great to be able to trust the pass, no matter if that is playing out of the short roll, finding kick-outs to the corner, getting offensive and defensive boards, blocking shots, or creating shots for others. I know that my job is very significant, so I just gotta be able to play with 100-percent effort every time I step on the floor.”