The Dallas Mavericks wrapped up their final road game of the 2014-2015 regular season with a loss to the Utah Jazz in Salt Lake City.
The Mavericks were without Dirk Nowitzki, Monta Ellis, and Tyson Chandler, who were sent back to Dallas after Sunday’s 120-106 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers. Chandler Parsons also missed the game due to a knee injury. Parsons has missed five consecutive games, but is expected to be ready to go for the playoffs.
The first quarter went back and forth, with both teams continuously trading baskets. Early in the second quarter, Dallas found themselves in a slump by struggling on defense, and constantly missing shots. However, Dallas stayed in it, and the score was tied at 57 at the end of the first half. Point Guard, Devin Harris left the game during the second quarter after suffering a injury to his left big toe.
With two and a half minutes left in the third quarter, the Mavericks found themselves down by fifteen and again struggling on defense and not being able to make baskets. The third quarter was a disaster for the Mavericks as they were only able to score twelve points and allowed Utah to score thirty points. At the end of the third quarter, Dallas was trailing Utah 69-87.
During the fourth quarter, the Mavericks had no success in attempting to get back into the game as Utah managed to stay a few steps ahead by taking advantage of missed shots by the Mavericks offense. The game ended with the final score 109-92.
The Mavericks struggled on offense going 34-82 in field goals, committing sixteen turnovers, and drawing twenty-one fouls. Most starters were rested for this game as a precaution in order to prepare for the playoffs. Rajon Rondo and Amar’e Stoudemire both played for the first three quarters, but we’re rested during the fourth. Rajon Rondo scored thirteen points, recorded four rebounds, and five assists with thirty-two minutes of playing time. Stoudemire finished with fifteen points and three rebounds.
Dallas will play their final home game of the regular season on Wednesday night at the American Airlines Center against the Portland Trail Blazers.
