Jason Kidd just-announced the departure of five mega-stars today with another significant issue in the team….

The Dallas Mavericks, who defeated the Golden State Warriors 108-106 sans star player Luka Doncic, faced the Houston Rockets on Sunday in an attempt to win two straight games. Dallas would rally from an early 22-point deficit to win in a thrilling overtime match.

The Mavericks would be playing in overtime for the first time this season because this game required extra time to determine the winner. Doncic and Kyrie Irving combined for 85 points, and Irving would go on to record his highest point total in his Mavericks career with 48.

Irving has become into a prominent Dallas leader during the Mavericks’ most recent 16-game winning streak. Even in crucial situations, Irving consistently brings the squad together and keeps the guys informed about the situation.

NBA Rookie Power Rankings: Before the last week, a new name breaks into the top five
Irving would score 25 of his 48 points after the third quarter and would light up the fourth and overtime. Pull-up threes and contested baskets near the rim would set Irving up for a career-high scoring performance.
Even though he finished with 48 points, Dante Exum could have had the best game of the evening as he made a game-winning, buzzer-beating three to force OT.

The Mavericks are now officially two games ahead of the Phoenix Suns for fifth place in the Western Conference after their most recent victory over the Rockets. Dallas may have to face the LA Clippers three times in the postseason if they can maintain this level of performance for the final four games of the regular season.

Sadly, Mavs supporters may miss the rest of the regular season without rookie Dereck Lively II. Let’s examine how his most recent injury may impact his rookie ranking.

Throughout the entire season, GG Jackson II has performed admirably for the Grizzlies. His play has elevated him into a future star player, even though it may not translate into wins.

After having a rough week the previous week, Trayce Jackson-Davis and the Golden State Warriors have found success recently. Can the Warriors secure a postseason berth?

The Utah Jazz’s protracted losing skid hasn’t been broken yet. Despite Keyonte George’s outstanding play throughout the season, Utah has suffered during the last 12 games as a result of starting a rookie guard.

The Mavericks have managed to churn out victories without Dereck Lively II over the past week, albeit it took them some time to adjust to life without their rookie sensation. Dallas’ ability to succeed without Lively II will be crucial given that he is probably going to be sidelined for the majority of the regular season.

After an incredible rookie season, Brandin Podziemski deserves his flowers. He was one of the few rookies to make a leap in the final weeks of the regular season. Podziemski will play a major role in the Warriors’ success if they manage to qualify for the postseason.