Donovan Mitchell and Max Strus Spark Cavaliers Despite Loss to Mavericks

CLEVELAND (AP) — Despite a strong performance from Donovan Mitchell and the season debut of Max Strus, the Cleveland Cavaliers fell to the Dallas Mavericks 130-120 on Sunday afternoon. Cooper Flagg led the Mavericks with 27 points, whereas Naji Marshall added 25.

Mavericks Rebound for Victory

Dallas, coming off a 33-3 loss to Cleveland two days prior, overcame a slow start and pulled away in the second half to end a seven-game losing streak against the Cavaliers. PJ Washington contributed 20 points and 11 rebounds for the Mavericks, who secured only their second win in 11 games.

Flagg’s Dominant Performance

First overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, Cooper Flagg, showcased his talent with 10 of 17 field goals made, along with 10 assists and 6 rebounds in 33 minutes of play. This marked the 12th time this season Flagg has scored at least 27 points.

Strus Makes Impactful Season Debut

After missing the first 67 games due to a fracture in his left foot, Max Strus made a significant impact in his season debut, scoring 24 points. Strus suffered a Jones fracture – a break in the bone connecting the pinky toe to the foot – during preseason training and underwent surgery on August 26. He demonstrated his versatility, contributing not only offensively but similarly grabbing eight rebounds.

Key Game Statistics

The Cavaliers committed 16 turnovers, resulting in 25 points for the Mavericks. The first half featured 11 lead changes and seven ties, with Dallas taking a narrow 60-59 lead into halftime. Dallas rookie John Poulakidas added 10 points in his second NBA game, scoring eight points and grabbing two rebounds in the third quarter.

Fourth Quarter Comeback Falls Short

The Mavericks led by as many as 21 points in the fourth quarter before the Cavaliers attempted a late-game comeback, ultimately falling short. Donovan Mitchell finished the game with 26 points for Cleveland.

Via: MLB.com