Nets vs Mavericks Friday Night in Dallas

The Brooklyn Nets, clinging to a 6-17 record, will visit the Dallas Mavericks, who stand at 9-16, on Friday night at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. The matchup tips off at 8:30 p.m. ET, marking the first meeting between the teams this season as both squads return from a six-day rest period prompted by the NBA Cup schedule.

Both teams enter the game with positive momentum after recent victories. The Nets defeated the New Orleans Pelicans 119-101 on December 6, building an 11-point lead early and maintaining control throughout. Forward Michael Porter Jr. led the effort with 35 points, nine rebounds and three assists, continuing a scorching stretch since returning from a back injury. Over his last three games, Porter has averaged 34.3 points, 8.7 rebounds, 4.0 assists and 2.0 steals, boosting his season averages to 25.8 points and 7.6 rebounds per game. Center Nic Claxton supported with 14 points, 11 rebounds and 10 assists for his second triple-double of the season. Brooklyn has won three of its last four contests, including double-digit triumphs over the Charlotte Hornets, Chicago Bulls and Pelicans, while holding opponents to under 108 points in that span. The...