Luka Doncic Celebrates 25th Birthday with Triple-Double, Guides Mavericks to Victory Over RaptorsBy Grant Afseth.

On Luka Doncic’s 25th birthday, the Dallas Mavericks secured a 136-125 triumph over the Toronto Raptors, ending a two-game losing streak. The victory followed losses to the Indiana Pacers and Cleveland Cavaliers, prompting coach Jason Kidd to describe it as a “significant character game.”

“This is a big character game,” Kidd stated before the match. “I think when you talk about how we played in the fourth quarter in Indiana, we made improvements in the Cleveland game. And so hopefully we can do, again, make improvements.”

Setting the tone for the Mavericks, Doncic contributed 30 points, 16 assists, 11 rebounds, and two steals, aiding the team’s rebound from a 121-119 loss to the Cavaliers. Kidd praised Doncic’s performance, stating, “Just a normal game, triple-double. He was really good. I guess 25 means he’s still going to be really good as he gets older here.”

Doncic, unaffected by the previous night’s disappointing loss, emphasized the NBA’s beauty, allowing teams another chance the next day. Alongside Doncic’s stellar performance, Irving added 29 points and three assists, P.J. Washington achieved a career-high 23 points, and the Mavericks displayed a balanced offensive effort.

Despite the Raptors initially taking a 6-2 lead, the Mavericks remained in control, with Doncic orchestrating plays and Washington commending his skills. The Raptors received notable contributions from starters, including Immanuel Quickley’s 28 points and R.J. Barrett’s 26 points.

The first half saw both teams struggle to create separation, with the Raptors leading 67-66. The aggressive double-teaming of Doncic by the Raptors led to turnovers, but Dallas regrouped in the second half. Lively’s impactful presence in the paint, combined with Doncic’s versatile play, propelled the Mavericks to an 84-79 lead in the third quarter.

With a 40-25 third-quarter dominance, the Mavericks entered the final period with a 106-92 advantage, ultimately securing a comfortable victory. Irving’s standout performance in the fourth quarter solidified the win, with the Mavericks up by 14 midway through the period.

Reflecting on the game, Doncic emphasized the team’s defensive efforts and his commitment to being a defensive playmaker. The victory marked a positive response to recent challenges, showcasing the Mavericks’ resilience and defensive prowess.

In a post-game jest, Doncic humorously expressed feeling 40 years old instead of 25, highlighting his extensive professional basketball experience, including his tenure with Real Madrid before joining the NBA in 2018.