Key Highlights
- The Portland Trail Blazers suffered another defeat in a tough five-game road trip.
- Dallas Mavericks defeated the Blazers 138-134 in overtime at America Airlines Center on Sunday, Nov. 16, 2025.
- Deni Avdija led the Blazers with 39 points but struggled from the field, making just 12 of 32 shots.
- Cooper Flagg, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA draft, contributed significantly to the Mavericks’ victory.
The Trail Blazers Continue Their Struggles
The Portland Trail Blazers have found themselves in a difficult position as their five-game road trip ended with another defeat. This loss came two days after their most lopsided defeat of the season, and it has sent them to their lowest point of 2025.
Blazers’ Performance
The Blazers were led by Deni Avdija, who scored a team-high 39 points. However, his performance was marred by inconsistency, as he made just 12 out of 32 shots from the field and struggled with multiple fouls.
Mavericks’ Clutch Finish
The Dallas Mavericks secured their victory through a combination of hot second-half shooting and timely free throws. They took the lead in overtime, thanks to Daniel Gafford’s clutch free throws that gave them an edge over the Blazers with less than two minutes left.
Cooper Flagg: The New Star
The Mavericks faced the No. 1 overall pick of the 2025 NBA draft for the first time, and Cooper Flagg quickly made a statement. Despite being held in check during the first half, he erupted for 10 points in the third quarter and finished with a total of 21 points.
Clutch Plays
Fagg’s most memorable plays included a behind-the-back dribble to get past Blazers defenders and finish with a EuroStep layup. He also completed a three-point play after picking off an Avdija pass, showcasing his versatility on the court.
Implications for the Trail Blazers
The loss against the Mavericks marks another setback for the Trail Blazers, who have dropped five of their last seven games. The absence of key player Jrue Holiday due to a calf injury further weakened the team’s backcourt. This defeat comes as a reminder that the Blazers are still in search of consistency and stability.
As they prepare to host the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday at 8 p.m., the Blazers will look to regroup and turn their fortunes around.
The upcoming game against the Suns, airing on NBC/Peacock, marks Portland’s first appearance on the network since a multiyear media rights deal was signed.
The Trail Blazers face an uphill battle as they try to improve their standing in the league. This loss underscores the challenges they must overcome and highlights the importance of maintaining focus and resilience throughout the season.
