P.J. Washington and Daniel Gafford had double-doubles, four of their Dallas teammates scored in double figures and the visiting Mavericks defeated the New Orleans Pelicans 137-136 on Wednesday night.

Dallas Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison had a dire need to address at last year’s trade deadline that led to the acquisitions of P.J. Washington and Daniel Gafford. The moves fortified the frontcourt and created a championship contender. The Mavericks are in a more precarious situation this time around.

Detroit's Jalen Duren looks to replicate his 17-point and 17-rebound game against the Indiana Pacers two weeks ago while Dallas's Daniel Gafford has an advantageous matchup defensive against a Pelicans team that takes a lot of shots in the painted area.

The Dallas Mavericks have an important three-game stretch against winnable teams coming up, which started with Monday's home contest against the lowly Washington Wizards. Nine players were missing combined between both teams, including Luka Doncic, Dereck Lively II, Naji Marshall, and Malcolm Brogdon.

Excellent two-way play

Kylor Kelley spoke to reporters before the Dallas Mavericks' game on Monday night against the Washington Wizards.

P.J. Washington scored 25 points, making all four of his 3-point attempts in the fourth quarter, and Kyrie Irving added 25 points and six assists.

If history is any indication, general manager Nico Harrison will have the Dallas Mavericks involved in the action ahead of the 2025 NBA trade deadline Feb. 6.

The Mavericks came into the matchup with some extra motivation after the defeat they were dealt the last time these two teams faced off. We'll see if they're able to flip the script or if it'll just be more of the same.

Mavs' Daniel Gafford joins Shaq, Hakeem With Historic Game Daniel Gafford made history with a stunning stat line on Monday.

NBA insider believes Mavericks could trade first-round pick before deadline Zion Williamson and Klay Thompson each got off to solid starts for their respective teams, as the Pelicans and Mavericks traded buckets early on.

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — P.J. Washington scored 25 points, making all four of his 3-point attempts in the fourth quarter, and Kyrie Irving added 25 points and six assists as the Dallas Mavericks outlasted the New Orleans Pelicans 137-136 on Wednesday night.