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Steph Curry contributed 23 points and nailed an important 3-pointer with just 3:45 remaining, helping secure the win. Jimmy Butler added 14 points, nine assists, and nine rebounds as the Golden State Warriors defeated the Dallas Mavericks 126-116 on Thursday.
The Mavericks’ newest star, Cooper Flag, made an impressive debut on Christmas Day, scoring 27 points on 13-of-21 shooting, grabbing six rebounds, and dishing out five assists. Meanwhile, Brandon Williams came off the bench to score 26 points.
Klay Thompson, who missed Tuesday’s home game against the Nuggets due to left knee soreness, returned to face his former Warriors team in a holiday afternoon matchup. Curry couldn’t help but sneak glances at Thompson’s warmup routines before they met midcourt to exchange greetings and a hug. Thompson was greeted with a warm ovation when he first entered the game with 5:51 left in the first quarter.
Mavericks center Anthony Davis left the game in the second quarter because of groin spasms and did not return, finishing with three points, three rebounds, and two blocks in 11 minutes of play.
Draymond Green, recovering from foul trouble two days prior, started the game and added 7 points and 5 rebounds. Coach Steve Kerr and Green had a heated exchange during a third quarter timeout against Orlando, but both quickly apologized afterward.
Golden State started 0-for-6 on three-pointers before the Mavericks even attempted their first long-range shot. Moses Moody scored early at 6:05 in the first quarter, and along with Al Horford, helped push the Warriors ahead. Horford returned after missing seven games with right foot sciatica, hitting all four of his three-point attempts as the Warriors led 40-28 after the first quarter. He finished with 14 points.
Anthony Melton scored 16 points for the Mavericks, while Brandin Podzemia chipped in 13 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 assists off the bench.
Looking ahead, the Mavericks will face Sacramento on Saturday, while the Warriors head to Toronto on Sunday.
Fan Take: This game’s highlight performances and dramatic moments showcase the evolving talent and intensity across the league, promising exciting matchups ahead. For basketball fans, it’s a reminder of how dynamic player returns and breakout debuts can shift team momentum and keep the sport thrilling.
