PHOENIX (Azat TV) – The Phoenix Suns decisively ended a two-game losing streak on February 10, securing a 120-111 victory over the Dallas Mavericks before a sold-out crowd of 17,071 at Mortgage Matchup Center. The win improved the Suns’ record to 32-22, while the struggling Mavericks extended their losing streak to eight consecutive games, falling to 19-34 on the season.
The Suns established early control, building a significant lead that saw them up by as many as 31 points in the first half. Despite Dallas’s persistent efforts to narrow the margin, Phoenix maintained its composure, with key plays in the final minutes sealing their home triumph. The performance offered a much-needed boost for the Suns as they navigate a crucial stretch of their season.
Suns Control Early Action Against Dallas
Phoenix demonstrated strong offensive execution from the outset, taking a commanding 65-48 lead by halftime. Forward Dillon Brooks was instrumental in the early surge, contributing 15 of his team-high 23 points in the first quarter alone, shooting 7-of-9 from the field. Brooks’s offensive burst helped the Suns build their largest lead of 61-30 with just over four minutes remaining in the first half.
Although the Mavericks managed to cut the lead to 14 points at one stage, a late three-pointer from Royce O’Neale extended Phoenix’s advantage to 17 points going into the break. The Suns pushed their lead back to 24 points in the second half, but Dallas, fueled by a remarkable performance from rookie Cooper Flagg and forward Naji Marshall, consistently battled back, reducing the deficit to single digits late in the game.
Key Performances and Roster Shifts for Phoenix
Seven Suns players reached double figures in scoring, showcasing a balanced offensive attack. Beyond Brooks’s 23 points, Devin Booker added 19 points, including a crucial jumper with 1:50 left to give Phoenix a 117-109 lead. Jalen Green, in his second game back after missing time with a left hip contusion, chipped in 12 points off the bench, despite being on a minutes restriction, as noted by Suns coach Jordan Ott. New acquisition Amir Coffey, part of a three-team trade before the February 5 deadline, made his Suns debut, contributing six points off the bench. Cole Anthony, also acquired in the same trade, has yet to join the team.
The Suns’ starting lineup featured Collin Gillespie, Devin Booker, Dillon Brooks, Royce O’Neale, and Mark Williams, a combination that has proven effective this season. Phoenix was without Grayson Allen (right knee sprain) and Isaiah Livers (left shoulder sprain) for the contest, highlighting the team’s depth.
Mavericks’ Struggles Continue Amidst Injuries
The Dallas Mavericks faced significant challenges, extending their losing streak to eight games. Despite the loss, individual performances stood out for Dallas. Forward Naji Marshall delivered a game-high 31 points off the bench, while rookie Cooper Flagg continued his impressive season with 27 points. Flagg, the No. 1 overall pick, leads the Mavericks in scoring with 20.3 points per game and steals at 1.2 per game.
Dallas played without several key players due to injury and rest, including Klay Thompson (rest), Kyrie Irving (left knee surgery), and Dereck Lively II (right foot surgery). Suns coach Jordan Ott acknowledged Flagg’s impact pregame, stating, “We’ll put multiple bodies in front of him. He is so big, so strong. He’s able to get to the rim. His jump shots have improved, his passing’s improved. It’s going to have to be multiple bodies, multiple different matchups.”
Looking Ahead: Suns’ Schedule and Season Series
This victory marked the second time the Suns have defeated the Mavericks this season, with their first win coming 123-114 on November 12 in Dallas. The Suns will play the second game of a home back-to-back on February 11 against the defending NBA champion Oklahoma City Thunder. Coach Ott mentioned being “super mindful” of minutes for players like Booker and Green, who are returning from injuries, especially with a week-long break for the All-Star festivities following the upcoming game.
The Suns’ ability to snap their skid and secure a win despite the Mavericks’ spirited comeback attempts underscores their resilience and depth, particularly with key players returning from injury and new acquisitions integrating into the team. This win is crucial for their Western Conference standing and momentum as the All-Star break approaches.