Jusuf Nurkic gives the Suns a big victory against the Mavs.

In a thrilling finish, the Phoenix Suns edged out the Dallas Mavericks 114-113, with Jusuf Nurkic hitting a crucial free throw with just 0.8 seconds remaining to seal the victory.

The Suns, now riding a seven-game win streak, showcased their depth and resilience against a strong Mavericks squad, improving their record to 8-1 and reinforcing their position among the top teams in the West.

Kevin Durant was once again the star for Phoenix, leading the team with 26 points, five rebounds, and four assists. Durant’s efficient scoring and presence on both ends of the floor were pivotal for the Suns as they battled a Mavericks team powered by Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. Durant continues to be a reliable force for Phoenix, proving why he’s still one of the league’s elite scorers.

Devin Booker played a key playmaking role, finishing with 13 points and a season-high 12 assists. While his scoring was quieter than usual, Booker’s distribution kept Phoenix’s offense flowing smoothly. His unselfishness allowed teammates to get involved, making the Suns’ attack tough to defend and adding another layer to their offensive versatility.

On the Mavericks’ side, Luka Doncic led all scorers with 30 points, adding seven rebounds and seven assists in a near triple-double performance. Doncic’s skill and scoring ability kept Dallas competitive throughout, and he was relentless in keeping his team within striking distance. His impact on the game is undeniable, and he continues to be the driving force for the Mavs’ offense.

Kyrie Irving complemented Doncic with 29 points, seven rebounds, and six assists. Irving’s shooting and quickness posed a constant threat to the Suns, and his chemistry with Doncic created problems for Phoenix’s defense. Despite their combined 59 points, Dallas couldn’t quite get over the hump as Phoenix’s defense held firm in the final seconds.

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Nurkic’s clutch free throw may have been just one point, but it was the difference-maker. The Suns center finished the game with a crucial contribution at the line, highlighting his importance to the team as a steady presence in the paint. His ability to step up in high-pressure moments adds to the Suns’ balanced attack.

Phoenix’s defense played a significant role in the win, particularly in limiting Dallas’s second-chance opportunities and containing their perimeter shooters in the closing moments. The Suns’ defensive schemes held firm in the clutch, keeping Doncic and Irving from finding open looks and ultimately securing the victory.

The Suns’ ball movement was another key factor, with Booker’s 12 assists leading the way. Phoenix’s unselfish play allowed them to spread the floor and create quality shots, helping them maintain a slim lead in the tightly contested game. This level of ball movement has been a hallmark of the Suns’ success this season.

Dallas, now 5-4, showed great fight, and the Doncic-Irving duo displayed their potential to be one of the league’s top scoring tandems. However, the Mavericks will need to find more consistent defensive stops if they want to close out close games. The Suns’ poise in the final seconds underscored the kind of execution Dallas will look to replicate moving forward.

For Phoenix, the win marks their seventh straight victory and reinforces their status as a powerhouse in the West. Durant’s scoring, Booker’s playmaking, and the team’s clutch performance suggest that the Suns are building a cohesive, competitive unit with the ability to grind out wins.

Overall, the Suns’ narrow victory over the Mavericks showcased a mix of star power, depth, and late-game composure. As Phoenix continues its hot streak, they look increasingly like a team that could go deep in the postseason, while Dallas will aim to regroup and build on the strong performances from Doncic and Irving.