Februaryary 3, 2005
Wizards defeat Mavericks
Mavs cold in the third
-- vs.
Washington 108 - - - -- Dallas 98
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Box Score ]
Washington and Dallas are at the moment both at the top of the table, that's
why it promised to be an exciting one right from the start.
The Wizards had changed their usual starting lineup and brought on Robert
Horry, who probably had a special assignment to keep Dirk out of the game.
Antawn Jamison was shining against his former teammates, he scored 10
of his 22 points in the first quarter. Mavericks remained one-sided, 19 of
their first quarter points were scored by the trio of Finley, Stackhouse and
Armstrong.
The second period was pretty much played by the same script. The Mavs
managed to cut the deficit and take the 3-point lead at the half .The two
players who stood out were Michael Finley, who had 16 at the half, and
Dwight Howard who had 8 points and grabbed 10 boards in the first half.
The Wizards brought on the heat in the third. Even though they were only
.500 percent from the line, the ball was moving on offense and they grew
a solid 7-point lead as Arenas scored 11 of his 22 points in the third. The
Mavericks' 18 points were once again scored by only three men.
Nowitzki's game opened late in the game, as he scored 9 of his 17 points
in the fourth. Washington's' game was led by Larry Hughes and Antawn
Jamison as they combined 20 points. Despite of all attempts the Mavs
couldn't catch up and lost by 10.
Dwight Howard earned the honor of being the Player of the Game with
18 points, 14 rebounds and 2 blocks. Michael Finley led Dallas with 29.
Antawn Jamison told the press that this game proved a lot. “Some have
said that we have a great win-loss percentage because we have played most
of our games against weaker teams. This one said it all. The best shooters
in the league couldn't beat us! Here's a message to all: Be aware!”
Ingame Photos
Eric Dampier had his moments against rookie Dwight Howard. Finley was playing at his usual level, he had 29 points.
Larry hughes went hot and scored 12 of his 25 points in the fourth.