Denver Nuggets vs Dallas Mavericks Match Player Stats

The denver nuggets vs dallas mavericks match player stats from the NBA game played on December 24, 2025, tell the story of one of the most entertaining contests of the regular season. Dallas edged Denver 131 to 130 at the American Airlines Center in front of 19,432 fans, completing a season sweep by taking a 2 to 0 lead in the season series. Although the final score was separated by only one point, the individual performances, shooting efficiency, and momentum swings made this matchup memorable. From Nikola Jokic’s all around brilliance to Cooper Flagg’s outstanding scoring display and Anthony Davis’ dominance inside, this game delivered elite basketball from start to finish.

Rather than looking only at who scored the most points, a deeper statistical breakdown explains why Dallas escaped with a victory despite Denver producing one of its most efficient offensive performances of the season. The numbers reveal how assists, turnovers, rebounding, shot selection, and fourth quarter execution shaped the outcome.

Match Overview

Match Details	Information
Game	Dallas Mavericks vs Denver Nuggets
Date	December 24, 2025
Competition	NBA Regular Season
Venue	American Airlines Center, Dallas, Texas
Attendance	19,432
Final Score	Dallas Mavericks 131, Denver Nuggets 130
Denver Record	21 to 8
Dallas Record	12 to 19
Season Series	Dallas leads 2 to 0
Broadcast	NBC, Peacock

Denver Nuggets vs Dallas Mavericks Match Player Stats Breakdown

Looking beyond the scoreboard, this game showcased elite offensive basketball from both teams.

Denver finished with:

• 130 points
• 57 percent field goal shooting
• 49 percent from three point range
• Perfect 10 for 10 free throws
• 39 assists
• 34 rebounds
• 15 turnovers

Dallas responded with:

• 131 points
• 57 percent field goal shooting
• 41 percent from three
• 93 percent free throw shooting
• 34 assists
• 36 rebounds
• Only 10 turnovers

One statistic immediately stands out. Both teams shot exactly 57 percent from the field, an exceptionally high percentage for an NBA game featuring two playoff caliber offenses.

The difference ultimately came down to extra possessions. Dallas committed five fewer turnovers while also collecting more offensive rebounds. Those additional opportunities proved critical in a game decided by a single point.

Quarter by Quarter Analysis

First Quarter

Dallas established control early by scoring 41 points, compared to Denver’s 27.

Anthony Davis attacked the paint immediately, while Cooper Flagg displayed remarkable confidence as both a scorer and facilitator. Denver struggled defensively during transition opportunities and allowed Dallas to establish offensive rhythm before the game settled.

Quarter Score

• Dallas 41
• Denver 27

Second Quarter

Denver’s defense improved significantly.

Nikola Jokic slowed the pace, creating high quality offensive possessions instead of rushing shots. Jamal Murray became increasingly aggressive, helping Denver reduce the deficit.

Quarter Score

• Dallas 25
• Denver 29

Halftime Score

Dallas 66

Denver 56

Although Dallas still led comfortably, Denver had already begun finding answers offensively.

Third Quarter

This was unquestionably Denver’s best stretch.

The Nuggets exploded for 47 points, one of their highest scoring quarters of the season.

Jokic controlled nearly every possession while Murray repeatedly punished defensive switches. Tim Hardaway Jr. added crucial perimeter shooting off the bench, helping Denver completely erase the halftime deficit.

Quarter Score

• Denver 47
• Dallas 37

At this stage, momentum had completely shifted toward Denver.

Fourth Quarter

The final period delivered everything basketball fans could hope for.

Both teams traded efficient offensive possessions, defensive stops became increasingly valuable, and every possession carried playoff intensity.

Dallas managed to execute slightly better during the closing moments, preserving a dramatic 131 to 130 victory.

Denver Nuggets Team Performance

Although Denver suffered the loss, its offensive efficiency deserves recognition.

Outstanding Ball Movement

Recording 39 assists on 50 made field goals demonstrates excellent offensive chemistry.

Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray each recorded 14 assists, creating opportunities throughout the lineup.

Very few NBA teams can generate this level of passing efficiency against a quality opponent.

Elite Shooting Numbers

Denver finished:

• 50 of 87 from the field
• 20 of 41 from three
• 10 of 10 from the free throw line

Those percentages normally produce comfortable victories.

Instead, turnovers ultimately prevented Denver from capitalizing on its offensive excellence.

Turnovers Became Costly

The Nuggets committed:

• 15 turnovers

Dallas committed:

• 10 turnovers

Those five extra giveaways effectively became the difference in a one point game.

Several occurred during crucial possessions when Denver had opportunities to extend its third quarter momentum.

Nikola Jokic Once Again Controlled the Game

The Nikola Jokic delivered another performance that perfectly illustrates why he remains among basketball’s smartest players.

Nikola Jokic Stats

Category	Total
Minutes	36
Points	29
Field Goals	12 of 22
Three Pointers	5 of 10
Rebounds	7
Assists	14
Steals	4
Turnovers	4

What immediately stands out is his overall efficiency.

He nearly recorded another triple double while shooting efficiently from both inside and beyond the arc.

His 14 assists consistently generated open looks for teammates, while four steals highlighted his defensive awareness.

Watching Jokic orchestrate Denver’s offense reinforces why many analysts consider him one of the greatest passing centers in NBA history. Every possession seemed calculated rather than rushed, and he repeatedly punished defensive mistakes with accurate reads instead of forcing difficult shots.

Jamal Murray Delivered One of His Best Games

The Jamal Murray matched Jokic’s playmaking while adding elite scoring.

Jamal Murray Stats

Category	Total
Minutes	37
Points	31
Field Goals	12 of 21
Three Pointers	3 of 7
Free Throws	4 of 4
Rebounds	7
Assists	14
Steals	1

Scoring 31 points while also producing 14 assists represents exceptional offensive production.

Murray consistently attacked the defense off the dribble, forcing Dallas to collapse into the paint before finding open shooters.

His chemistry with Jokic remained the foundation of Denver’s offense throughout the night.

Tim Hardaway Jr. Changed the Game Off the Bench

One of Denver’s biggest positives came from its second unit.

Tim Hardaway Jr. finished with:

• 23 points
• 8 of 13 shooting
• 7 of 12 from three point range

His perimeter shooting completely changed Denver’s offensive spacing during the third quarter.

Dallas frequently sent additional defenders toward Jokic and Murray, leaving Hardaway with quality catch and shoot opportunities that he converted consistently.

Despite coming off the bench, he finished among Denver’s highest impact players.

Valuable Bench Contributions

Denver also received productive minutes from several role players.

Bruce Brown

Bruce Brown provided balance across multiple categories.

• 13 points
• 7 rebounds
• 3 assists
• 1 steal
• 1 block

His defensive versatility helped Denver remain competitive throughout the second half.

Jonas Valanciunas

In only 14 minutes he produced:

• 8 points
• 3 of 4 shooting
• 2 for 2 free throws

His efficiency inside helped stabilize Denver whenever Jokic rested.

Julian Strawther

Strawther added valuable scoring.

• 8 points
• 3 of 4 shooting
• 2 of 3 from long distance

His shooting continued Denver’s impressive offensive efficiency.

Role Players Who Struggled

Not every Nugget enjoyed a productive evening.

Peyton Watson scored only four points while committing three turnovers.

Cameron Johnson contributed eight points but finished with a negative plus minus.

Spencer Jones remained active defensively but had limited offensive impact despite playing 26 minutes.

These quieter performances placed additional responsibility on Denver’s stars to carry the offense.

Dallas Mavericks Team Performance

Although Denver produced one of its most efficient offensive performances of the season, Dallas matched that efficiency while making slightly better decisions in key moments. The Mavericks demonstrated excellent balance between star power and role-player contributions, allowing them to withstand Denver’s explosive third quarter and finish the game with a narrow victory.

The team finished with:

• 131 points
• 53 of 93 shooting from the field
• 11 of 27 from three point range
• 14 of 15 from the free throw line
• 36 rebounds
• 34 assists
• 10 turnovers
• 9 steals
• 2 blocked shots

What makes these numbers impressive is that Dallas did not rely on one player carrying the offense. Instead, several players scored in double figures while the ball continued moving throughout the game. Even after Denver’s third-quarter comeback, Dallas remained composed instead of forcing difficult shots.

Another important factor was shot selection. The Mavericks consistently attacked the paint, earned free throws, and created high-percentage opportunities around the basket. While Denver made more three-pointers, Dallas compensated with better interior scoring and fewer wasted possessions.

Cooper Flagg Produced the Best Individual Performance

The Cooper Flagg delivered the game’s highest scoring total and showed why he is already becoming one of the league’s most exciting young stars.

Cooper Flagg Stats

Category	Total
Minutes	40
Points	33
Field Goals	14 of 21
Three Pointers	4 of 6
Free Throws	1 of 1
Rebounds	9
Assists	9
Steals	1
Blocks	1
Turnovers	2
Plus Minus	+10

Flagg finished only one rebound and one assist away from a triple double.

His efficiency stood out throughout the game.

• 67 percent shooting from the field
• 67 percent from three
• Only two turnovers in 40 minutes

Beyond the scoring numbers, Flagg consistently made the correct basketball decision. When Denver collapsed defensively, he found open teammates. When defenders stayed home on shooters, he attacked the basket with confidence.

His fourth-quarter decision-making helped Dallas survive Denver’s late comeback.

Anthony Davis Dominated Both Ends

The Anthony Davis reminded everyone why he remains one of the NBA’s elite two-way players.

Anthony Davis Stats

Category	Total
Minutes	36
Points	31
Field Goals	12 of 19
Three Pointers	1 of 2
Free Throws	6 of 6
Rebounds	9
Assists	4
Steals	3
Turnovers	1

Davis combined scoring efficiency with defensive impact.

His three steals disrupted several Denver possessions, while his rebounding helped limit second-chance opportunities.

Offensively, he consistently attacked inside, forcing Denver’s defense to collapse and opening perimeter shots for teammates.

His six perfect free throws also proved valuable in a game decided by one point.

Ryan Nembhard Controlled the Tempo

While his scoring numbers were modest, Ryan Nembhard quietly influenced the outcome.

Ryan Nembhard Stats

• 11 points
• 7 assists
• 3 rebounds
• 1 turnover
• Game-high +24 plus minus

The plus-minus statistic does not always tell the complete story, but in this game it reflected his ability to keep Dallas organized.

Whenever he was on the floor, the Mavericks maintained offensive flow and avoided careless mistakes.

His seven assists created multiple easy scoring opportunities without forcing risky passes.

Naji Marshall Provided Consistency

Naji Marshall contributed valuable minutes that may not receive enough attention.

His final numbers included:

• 15 points
• 6 of 11 shooting
• 2 of 4 from three
• 4 rebounds
• 3 assists

Marshall consistently made timely baskets whenever Denver threatened to take control.

Instead of forcing contested shots, he remained patient and took advantage of defensive rotations.

Strong Bench Production

Dallas also received important production from several reserve players.

Jaden Hardy

Hardy supplied instant offense.

• 10 points
• 5 of 9 shooting
• 2 assists

His ability to score without dominating the ball helped Dallas maintain momentum.

Caleb Martin

Martin filled multiple roles during his 25 minutes.

• 9 points
• 4 rebounds
• 3 assists
• 2 steals

His defensive activity created transition opportunities during important stretches.

D’Angelo Russell

Russell played only 15 minutes but made them count.

• 9 points
• 3 three-pointers
• 4 assists
• Zero turnovers

Protecting the basketball while stretching the floor made his contribution particularly valuable.

Daniel Gafford

Although his scoring was limited, Gafford impacted the game defensively.

• 4 points
• 3 rebounds
• 1 block
• 1 steal

His interior presence helped challenge Denver around the basket during several possessions.

Complete Denver Nuggets Player Statistics

Player	MIN	PTS	REB	AST	STL	BLK
Nikola Jokic	36	29	7	14	4	0
Jamal Murray	37	31	7	14	1	0
Cameron Johnson	24	8	2	3	0	0
Spencer Jones	26	6	4	2	2	0
Peyton Watson	24	4	2	1	0	0
Jonas Valanciunas	14	8	1	1	0	0
Tim Hardaway Jr.	29	23	2	1	0	0
Bruce Brown	26	13	7	3	1	1
Jalen Pickett	6	0	0	0	0	0
Julian Strawther	12	8	2	0	0	0

Complete Dallas Mavericks Player Statistics

Player	MIN	PTS	REB	AST	STL	BLK
Anthony Davis	36	31	9	4	3	0
Naji Marshall	32	15	4	3	1	0
Cooper Flagg	40	33	9	9	1	1
Ryan Nembhard	33	11	3	7	0	0
Jaden Hardy	28	10	2	2	1	0
Caleb Martin	25	9	4	3	2	0
Daniel Gafford	17	4	3	0	1	1
D’Angelo Russell	15	9	2	4	0	0
Brandon Williams	15	9	0	2	0	0

Team Statistics Comparison

Category	Denver Nuggets	Dallas Mavericks
Points	130	131
Field Goals	50 of 87	53 of 93
Field Goal Percentage	57%	57%
Three Pointers	20 of 41	11 of 27
Three Point Percentage	49%	41%
Free Throws	10 of 10	14 of 15
Free Throw Percentage	100%	93%
Total Rebounds	34	36
Offensive Rebounds	7	11
Defensive Rebounds	27	25
Assists	39	34
Turnovers	15	10
Steals	8	9
Blocks	1	2
Personal Fouls	16	12

Key Statistical Takeaways

The numbers reveal several reasons why Dallas won despite Denver’s remarkable shooting performance.

Dallas Protected the Basketball Better

Turnovers often decide close NBA games.

Dallas committed only ten turnovers compared with Denver’s fifteen.

Those five additional possessions created enough scoring opportunities to overcome Denver’s hot shooting.

Offensive Rebounding Made a Difference

Dallas secured eleven offensive rebounds.

Denver collected only seven.

Those second-chance opportunities extended possessions and produced valuable points during critical stretches.

Denver Won the Three Point Battle

The Nuggets connected on twenty three-pointers while shooting an outstanding 49 percent.

Dallas made only eleven.

Normally that difference would heavily favor Denver, yet Dallas compensated through interior scoring and offensive rebounding.

Dallas Controlled the Paint

Anthony Davis and Cooper Flagg consistently attacked inside, forcing Denver into difficult defensive situations.

The Mavericks also earned more free throws and converted them efficiently.

These small advantages accumulated throughout the game and proved decisive in the final minutes.

Advanced Analysis of the Match

A box score provides the basic story, but advanced analysis explains why the game unfolded the way it did. The December 24 matchup featured elite offensive basketball, exceptional individual performances, and several statistical trends that directly influenced the final score.

Both teams shot 57 percent from the field, which is uncommon in an NBA game involving more than 250 combined points. Normally, when two teams shoot at such an efficient rate, the deciding factors become possession management, rebounding, and execution in high-pressure situations.

This contest was a perfect example.

Ball Movement Was Elite on Both Sides

Modern NBA offenses rely heavily on creating open shots through passing rather than isolation basketball.

Denver finished with 39 assists.

Dallas recorded 34 assists.

Those numbers demonstrate that both offenses consistently generated quality scoring opportunities.

Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray combined for 28 assists alone, while Cooper Flagg, Ryan Nembhard, Anthony Davis, Caleb Martin, and D’Angelo Russell kept Dallas’ offense flowing through quick decisions and unselfish passing.

Rather than relying on contested jump shots, both teams created offense through movement, spacing, and smart reads.

Efficiency Was Historically Impressive

Few NBA games feature both teams shooting at least 57 percent from the floor.

Denver

• 57 percent field goals
• 49 percent from three
• 100 percent free throws

Dallas

• 57 percent field goals
• 41 percent from three
• 93 percent free throws

These numbers indicate that defensive stops were extremely difficult to achieve throughout the evening.

Instead of poor defense alone, much of the credit belongs to outstanding shot creation and exceptional offensive execution.

Possession Battle Decided the Game

One of the biggest lessons from this matchup is that efficiency alone does not guarantee victory.

Denver actually produced:

• More assists
• Better three-point shooting
• Perfect free-throw shooting

Dallas still won because it controlled more possessions.

The Mavericks accomplished this by:

• Committing fewer turnovers
• Collecting more offensive rebounds
• Limiting Denver’s transition opportunities late in the game

Those extra possessions became more valuable than Denver’s superior outside shooting.

Individual Matchup Analysis

Nikola Jokic vs Anthony Davis

This matchup featured two of the NBA’s premier frontcourt players.

Jokic focused on orchestrating Denver’s offense while Davis balanced interior scoring with defensive responsibility.

Category	Nikola Jokic	Anthony Davis
Points	29	31
Rebounds	7	9
Assists	14	4
Steals	4	3
Field Goals	12 of 22	12 of 19

Jokic functioned as Denver’s offensive engine.

Nearly every successful possession flowed through his decision-making.

Davis, meanwhile, consistently pressured Denver around the basket while protecting the paint on the defensive end.

Both stars played at an All-NBA level, making this one of the game’s most compelling individual battles.

Jamal Murray vs Cooper Flagg

This matchup highlighted two different offensive styles.

Jamal Murray

• 31 points
• 14 assists
• 7 rebounds

Cooper Flagg

• 33 points
• 9 rebounds
• 9 assists

Murray excelled as Denver’s primary creator alongside Jokic.

Flagg combined scoring efficiency with versatile playmaking while remaining effective on both ends of the floor.

Although Murray produced more assists, Flagg’s complete statistical contribution helped Dallas secure the victory.

Game Leaders

Category	Leader
Points	Cooper Flagg, 33
Rebounds	Anthony Davis, 9
Assists	Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray, 14
Steals	Anthony Davis, 3
Blocks	Cooper Flagg and Daniel Gafford, 1
Highest Plus Minus	Ryan Nembhard, +24

These leaders highlight how balanced the performances were across both teams.

Rather than one superstar dominating every category, different players influenced different aspects of the contest.

Turning Points That Changed the Game

Dallas’ Explosive Opening Quarter

Scoring 41 points in the first quarter immediately placed pressure on Denver.

Starting with an early lead allowed Dallas to play with greater confidence throughout the remainder of the game.

Denver’s Massive Third Quarter

Denver responded by scoring 47 points during the third period.

This offensive explosion completely shifted momentum and briefly placed the Nuggets in position to steal the victory.

The combination of Jokic’s passing, Murray’s scoring, and Tim Hardaway Jr.’s perimeter shooting overwhelmed Dallas during this stretch.

Late Game Execution

Close NBA games are frequently decided by execution rather than talent.

Dallas avoided costly mistakes during the closing possessions.

The Mavericks protected the basketball, converted important opportunities, and prevented Denver from generating enough transition offense to complete the comeback.

What This Result Means for Denver

Although the Nuggets lost, several positives emerged.

First, the offensive chemistry between Jokic and Murray remains among the league’s best.

Second, Denver’s role players produced meaningful contributions.

Tim Hardaway Jr., Bruce Brown, Julian Strawther, and Jonas Valanciunas all delivered efficient performances.

The biggest concern remains turnovers.

Fifteen turnovers are difficult to overcome against quality opponents, regardless of shooting efficiency.

If Denver reduces giveaways while maintaining this level of offensive execution, similar performances are likely to produce more victories than defeats over the course of a season.

What This Result Means for Dallas

Dallas entered the game with a 12 to 19 record, making this victory particularly valuable.

Several encouraging trends emerged.

The team’s offensive balance was excellent.

Cooper Flagg continued demonstrating star potential.

Anthony Davis controlled both ends of the floor.

Ryan Nembhard organized the offense effectively.

The bench also contributed meaningful production without requiring excessive minutes.

Winning close games often builds confidence, especially for teams attempting to improve their position during the regular season.

This victory also completed a 2 to 0 season series advantage over Denver.

Why This Game Will Be Remembered

Several factors make this contest memorable.

• A one-point finish
• More than 260 combined points
• Both teams shooting 57 percent
• Outstanding performances from multiple All-Star caliber players
• A dramatic momentum shift during the third quarter
• Elite ball movement throughout the game

Fans who appreciate offensive basketball will likely remember this matchup as one of the most entertaining games of the 2025 regular season.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the final score between the Dallas Mavericks and Denver Nuggets?

The Dallas Mavericks defeated the Denver Nuggets 131 to 130 on December 24, 2025, at the American Airlines Center in Dallas.

Who scored the most points in the game?

Cooper Flagg led all players with 33 points for the Dallas Mavericks, while Jamal Murray scored 31 points to lead the Denver Nuggets.

Who recorded the most assists?

Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray shared the game lead with 14 assists each.

Which team shot better from three-point range?

Denver shot better from beyond the arc, making 20 of 41 three-point attempts for 49 percent, while Dallas made 11 of 27 for 41 percent.

Why did Dallas win despite Denver’s excellent shooting?

Dallas committed fewer turnovers, grabbed more offensive rebounds, and executed better during the final possessions, allowing the Mavericks to secure a one-point victory.

Where can I find official NBA game statistics?

Official game statistics, schedules, and box scores are available on the NBA’s official website.

Conclusion

The denver nuggets vs dallas mavericks match player stats highlight far more than a thrilling one point finish. They reveal how two elite offenses approached the game differently while producing remarkably similar efficiency. Denver relied on outstanding ball movement, elite three point shooting, and the exceptional playmaking of Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray. Dallas countered with balanced scoring, dominant interior play from Anthony Davis, a breakout performance from Cooper Flagg, and disciplined execution during the closing possessions.

From a statistical perspective, this game serves as an excellent example of why basketball cannot be judged by scoring alone. Denver finished with more assists, made more three pointers, and shot perfectly from the free throw line. However, Dallas protected the basketball more effectively, collected additional offensive rebounds, and converted crucial possessions late in the fourth quarter. Those seemingly small advantages ultimately determined the final result.

The individual performances were equally impressive. Cooper Flagg led all scorers with 33 points while nearly recording a triple double. Anthony Davis controlled the paint on both ends of the floor with 31 points and nine rebounds. Nikola Jokic once again demonstrated why he is considered one of the greatest playmaking centers in NBA history by finishing with 29 points and 14 assists. Jamal Murray matched Jokic’s passing brilliance while adding 31 points in another outstanding offensive display.

When examining the complete statistical picture, this matchup stands out as one of the most entertaining games of the 2025 NBA regular season. It featured elite shooting percentages, outstanding individual performances, dramatic momentum swings, and a finish that remained undecided until the final possession. Anyone analyzing this contest can appreciate how efficiency, decision making, rebounding, and ball security combined to shape a memorable 131 to 130 Dallas victory.