The Dallas Mavericks are going up against the rebuilding Portland Trail Blazers tonight. As usual, Luka Doncic is simply landing shots left and right, already leading the scoreboard with a triple-double. But it has become a common occurrence with Doncic to have a historic night or a record every two or three weeks. And tonight, he just happened to overtake his mentor and the Mavericks legend, Dirk Nowitzki.

In just 20 minutes of game time, Doncic set a brand new franchise record for the most 35+ points games.

Luka Doncic overtakes Dirk Nowitzki for a new franchise record

Nowitzki had 78 games with this record, and now “The Don” is one game ahead, at 79. The Slovenian superstar is averaging 32.7 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 9.1 assists per game this season. Moreover, he also ranks fifth on the MVP ladder this season.

Their previous loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves might have added fuel to tonight’s hard-nosed drive. With the 131-120 win, the Mavs are 16-9, while the loss left the Blazers at 6-18. Once again, going into the game without Kyrie Irving meant that Dallas had a hard time getting into the offense without Doncic or Exum on the floor.

The Mavs rolled their sleeves to carry the team to the finish line

In the absence of Irving, Tim Hardaway Jr. played a key role. Right behind Doncic, who scored 40 points, 10 assists, and 12 rebounds, Hardaway posted 25 points and six rebounds. And then, midway, Dereck Lively II rolled his ankle, ruling him out for the remainder of the game.

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Later, it was revealed that he had a sprained left ankle. Already short of Richaun Holmes and Maxi Kleber, the Mavs center was rich for taking. The second quarter saw Doncic get the momentum going with the bench unit, with Seth Curry and Hardaway also heating up to take a 46-39 lead with 10:21 left.

Throughout the game, Doncic carried the brunt of offense, emerging with his final 40th point with a step-back from mid-range. Their next opponents are the Denver Nuggets. On par with Doncic, Nikola Jokić is going to be hard to stop.

Who do you think will come out on top in the battle of the European heavyweights?

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