The Dallas Mavericks played back-to-back games in the California capital to close out the 2021 calendar year. The Sacramento Kings handed the shorthanded Mavs a heartbreaking loss on December 29 and Dallas wanted revenge on New Years Eve.

The Mavericks were without ten players Friday night. Eight were in health and safety protocols, including superstar Luka Doncic. The surprise was that Frank Ntilikina was sent off less than an hour before the announcement, although he had not appeared on the injury report previously.

Dallas had an incredible run in the third quarter to take control of the game on Friday night, where they outscored the Kings 24 to two in six minutes. The Mavericks did it with shots and a hot defense in Sacramento as they ran to a 112-96 victory. Here’s a look at how Dallas performed, and a look at what will start in 2022.

The Mavs allowed 39 points in the first quarter and were down five after 12 minutes before resuming the game. Dallas dominated Sacramento 28-17 and 32-20 over the next two periods, and the Mavericks never looked back.

Their massive run in the third quarter was special. Dallas controlled the game and forced the Kings to make mistakes. It was one of the best six-minute streaks for the Mavs this season.

Kristaps Porzingis was exceptional on Friday night as he finished with 24 points, nine rebounds, six assists and two blocks in 33 minutes of action. Then Unicorn had eight of his 12 baskets and six of his seven free throws in the victory.

Jalen Brunson produced 23 points and eight assists as the starting point guard. He and KP are leading the charge in the team’s impressive run, and JB has proven he deserves to be a starter going forward.

The Dallas Mavericks are back in action Jan. 2 as they travel to Oklahoma City to take on the Thunder. This is the first in a straight series and a chance for the Mavs to come back to .500. Fans won’t want to miss it, so log on and enjoy it.