Key Highlights
- The Dallas Mavericks lost to the Miami Heat in a close game.
- Ryan Nembhard played crucially for the Mavericks during the second half.
- Kel’el Ware dominated the middle with 20 points, 18 rebounds, and 3 blocks.
- Caleb Martin struggled against his former team in just under five minutes of play.
The Dallas Mavericks Fall to Miami Heat: A Clutch Game Recap
In a closely contested game on November 24, 2025, the Dallas Mavericks fell short against the Miami Heat with a final score of 106-102. This loss marked another disappointing ending for the Mavericks in clutch situations.
Ryan Nembhard’s Impact
One of the most notable factors in the second half was the performance of Ryan Nembhard, who stepped up when the team needed him most. Despite being on a two-way contract and having to manage his playing time carefully, Nembhard made an impact that could not be ignored.
Nembhard’s +5 defensive rating stood in stark contrast to D’Angelo Russell’s -5 performance in just 9 minutes of play. His ability to create plays and distribute the ball effectively contributed significantly to the Mavericks’ comeback effort during the final moments of the game.
Kel’el Ware’s Dominance
Another standout performer for the Mavericks was Kel’el Ware, who demonstrated his potential as a future cornerstone of the team. Playing with energy and determination, Ware secured 20 points, 18 rebounds, and 3 blocks in an impressive display.
The question remains whether this performance could be a preview of what Dereck Lively II can achieve if he ever stays healthy for extended periods. Ware’s play from the center position was crucial in holding down the middle against the Heat’s big men.
Caleb Martin’s Poor Performance
In his return to Miami, Caleb Martin struggled significantly with minimal impact on the game. In just under five minutes of action, he failed to contribute meaningfully, finishing 0-0 from the field and -11 in point differential, second-lowest among Mavericks players.
The team will need to consider whether playing Martin again against his former teammates is wise, given that it has not yielded positive results so far. While he showed potential earlier this season, his current form suggests a different approach may be needed going forward.
Conclusion
A Disappointing Clutch Performance
The loss to the Miami Heat highlights once again how the Mavericks struggle in clutch situations, despite having talent on their roster. Ryan Nembhard’s performance showed that he can be a valuable asset when given opportunities, while Kel’el Ware’s play suggests he could become an integral part of the team.
However, the struggles of players like Caleb Martin underscore the importance of making strategic decisions about playing time and lineup adjustments to maximize the team’s potential in high-pressure situations. The Mavericks will have to address these issues as they continue their four-game road trip, which includes matches against the Los Angeles Clippers and New Orleans Pelicans.
