dirk.bmp
Mavericks 108, Lakers 72 : The score was 28-24, Dallas, at the end of the first quarter; it was 59-35 at halftime. From that point on, there really wasn’t much speculation of if the Mavs would win their franchise-record 17th straight. Josh Howard led the way with 24 points, and five other Mavericks scored in double figures. Dallas needs to go 18-3 to win 70, which, by their standards, might be considered a losing streak.

Supersonics 119, Raptors 120: Ray Allen did all he could to try and win this game, but his 36 points was two points too few when it was all said and done. Chris Bosh had 24 points, and TJ Ford scored 9 of the Raptors 14 points in overtime.

Pistons 98, Clippers 80: I guess one good year in a decade is about all you can ask from the Clippers. They’re 29-33 now, have lost three straight, and now only hold a one game lead for the last playoff spot in the West. The good news? That one game lead might be pretty safe since it’s the Kings that are doing the chasing.

Nuggets 113, Kings 101: Artest showed up, had 17 points, but it wasn’t enough. Iverson and ‘Melo combined for 53 points, showing they can win together. Every once in a while, anyway.

Bulls 94, Celtics 78: Boston shot 38% from the field, and Paul Pierce only had 8 points. It was, however, only the Celtics second loss in seven games. Pretty impressive, given their roster.

Pacers 88, Cavs 99: What comes first, a Dallas loss or a Pacers win? This marked Indiana’s ninth straight loss, and their playoff grip is starting to slip. They’re seventh in the Eastern conference right now, but their competition, the Knicks, Nets and Magic, aren’t exactly scaring anyone.

Wizards 104, Heat 106: The Heat’s leading scorer only had 18 points, but 8 guys scored in double digits. Gilbert Arenas had 33 points, but Udonis Haslem’s last second jumper iced the game for Miami.

Magic 92, Rockets 103: Yao had 37 points, 4 blocks and 8 rebounds. Still think this team is better off without him?

Warriors 87, Trail Blazers 106: So much for that win streak, Golden State. Brandon Roy had 26 points, and Zach Randolph had 25, leading the way for Portland.