Christmas Eve Showdown
In an electrifying matchup on Christmas Eve, Cooper Flagg showcased his exceptional talent, leading the Dallas Mavericks to a narrow 131-130 victory against the Denver Nuggets. Flagg, who delivered a stunning performance, scored 33 points, secured nine rebounds, and provided nine assists, demonstrating his skill with a career-high of four three-pointers made. His impressive showing was especially noteworthy amidst strong performances from Nuggets stars Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray, who combined for 60 points and 28 assists.
Flagg’s Holiday Spirit
With Christmas spirit in the air, Flagg attributed his outstanding gameplay to the holiday atmosphere, expressing joy at his contribution to the team’s success.
“Nah, I mean, Christmas time. There’s magic in the air. It’s the holidays. I’m just glad to come out here and have a good performance,”
he stated post-game.
Game Highlights
Prior to this thrilling encounter, Dallas quickly established a commanding 20-6 lead, aggressively attacking the rim, with 11 of their initial 15 shots landing inside the restricted area. Flagg led the charge early, scoring 22 points on 9-of-10 shooting in the first half, effectively maintaining the Mavericks’ double-digit lead into halftime.
However, the Nuggets rallied back in the third quarter, scoring an impressive 47 points, thanks largely to Jokic’s and Murray’s relentless offensive pressure, tying the game at the start of the final period. Dallas regrouped in the fourth, buoyed by Anthony Davis, who added 10 points to his total of 31 points and nine rebounds, steering the team to victory.
Close Call for the Nuggets
As the clock ticked down, the Nuggets nearly snatched the win when Jokic, after being swarmed by Mavericks’ defenders, executed a deft pass to a wide-open Peyton Watson at the buzzer. Unfortunately for Denver, Watson’s shot fell short. Meanwhile, Flagg and the Mavericks celebrated their victory at center court, shifting their focus to an upcoming clash with the Golden State Warriors, led by star Stephen Curry, on Christmas Day.
Injury Concerns
In unfortunate news for the Nuggets, forward Cameron Johnson exited the game in the fourth quarter with a knee sprain after an awkward landing. Johnson limped off the court, leaving the team already missing two starters, Aaron Gordon and Christian Braun, due to injuries.
As Flagg’s momentum carries into the next game, the Mavericks are hopeful for continued success amid the holiday festivities.
