The Dallas Mavericks' decision to trade franchise cornerstone Luka Doncic was met with heavy scrutiny, and early injuries — most notably to Anthony Davis — only fueled the criticism. However, despite the doubts, the Mavericks are thriving without their former Slovenian superstar.

The Dallas Mavericks took the NBA by storm earlier this month with a massive trade that sent Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a 14-year-old (2029 first-round pick).

Kyrie Irving scored 35 points, P.J. Washington Jr. had 20 of his 24 points in the first half and the Dallas Mavericks beat the New Orleans Pelicans 111-103 on Friday night for their third straight victory.

Kyrie Irving scored a game-high 35 points and the host Dallas Mavericks came to life at the start of the fourth quarter on the way to a 111-103 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans on Friday night.