New-Look Mavericks Look to Stay Hot Against Struggling Heat

The Dallas Mavericks are adjusting to life without Luka Doncic, but one of their newest additions, Max Christie, is proving he’s more than just a throw-in piece. As they prepare to host the Miami Heat on Thursday in their final game before the All-Star break, the Mavericks are aiming to keep their momentum going.

Max Christie Making a Name for Himself in Dallas

When Dallas sent Luka Doncic to the Lakers in exchange for a package headlined by Anthony Davis, most fans didn’t pay much attention to Christie’s inclusion. But five games in, the third-year guard is turning heads, averaging 17 points on 50.9% shooting since arriving in Dallas.

Injury-riddled Mavericks step up

• Christie made his first start for Dallas on Wednesday and delivered with 17 points, five rebounds, and four assists in a 111-107 win over Golden State.
• With multiple key players sidelined—including Anthony Davis (adductor strain), Daniel Gafford (knee sprain), P.J. Washington (ankle sprain), and Dante Exum (Achilles tightness)—Christie was forced into an expanded role and delivered.
• He also iced the game, knocking down two clutch free throws with 10.4 seconds left.

Coach Jason Kidd is putting trust in the young guard, and Christie is embracing the opportunity.

“Having a coach that’ll trust you like that is super important,” Christie said. “Coach Kidd is willing and trusting me enough to put me in those situations, so it means a lot to me as a player, and something I want to continue to improve on.”

The chemistry with Kyrie Irving is also growing, as Irving exploded for a season-high 42 points, hitting seven threes against the Warriors.

“He’s obviously a phenomenal player,” Christie said of Irving. “But the things that don’t show up on the stat sheet—his hustle, leadership, and intensity—are super important, and I’ve noticed it from day one.”

With the Mavericks missing key players again on Thursday, expect Christie, Irving, and Tim Hardaway Jr. to take on bigger roles.

Heat Look to Snap Three-Game Losing Streak

While Dallas is riding high, Miami is struggling to find its rhythm. The Heat fell 115-101 to the Oklahoma City Thunder on Wednesday, marking their third straight loss.

Miami controlled the game early but completely collapsed in the fourth quarter, where OKC opened on a 24-0 run—a brutal stretch that left head coach Erik Spoelstra frustrated but hopeful.

“Right now, I’m going with what I saw in the first three quarters,” Spoelstra said. “We’ve made some progress in the last 24 hours. It’s not about moral victories, but we’re trying to build this thing fast.”

Key Notes on the Heat:

• Bam Adebayo led the team with 27 points and 15 rebounds.
• Tyler Herro and Davion Mitchell each contributed 14 points.
• Duncan Robinson and Terry Rozier missed the game due to stomach illnesses that have been affecting the team.

With Miami rolling out its 13th different starting lineup on Wednesday, Spoelstra hinted that Davion Mitchell could become a permanent backcourt partner for Tyler Herro.

“We like the potential and the possibilities,” Spoelstra said. “Davion brings that bulldog mentality. He wants to get the ball to other guys. I think they complement each other.”

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Can the Mavericks Keep Rolling?

The Mavericks have won three of their past four and are looking to head into the All-Star break on a high note. Meanwhile, Miami needs a win badly before getting a much-needed break.

Can Christie continue to shine? Will Miami’s illness woes keep them from competing? Tune in Thursday to see how it all unfolds.