Mavericks 116, Pacers 108

The Dallas Mavericks defeated the Indiana Pacers 116-108 on Friday night.  With the win, the Mavericks recorded their eighth straight win (longest active win streak in the NBA), and have now won 18 of their last 19 games (including 19-of-21). Their average margin of victory during the eight-game win streak is 10.6.  The Mavericks have now won nine consecutive games at American Airlines Center. It’s their longest home winning streak of the season (1/19/11-present).

Dirk Nowitzki went 10-of-12 from the field en route to a game-high 29 points on Friday. It marked the fifth time this season he’s shot at least 80 percent from the floor (minimum 10 field goal attempts). He’s now had 11 games in his career in which he’s shot at least 80 percent from the field.  Jason Kidd recorded 15 points (3-4 FGs, 3-4 3FGs, 6-6 FTs), six rebounds, five assists and one steal vs. Indiana on Friday. He is now tied with Gary Payton (2,445) for third place on the all-time steals list behind Michael Jordan (2,514) and John Stockton (3,265).

Mavericks forward Corey Brewer, who was signed by Dallas on Thursday (3/3/11), made his debut for Dallas against the Pacers. He entered the game in the second quarter and went scoreless in 5 minutes of action.  Brendan Haywood made his fourth start of the season (first since 1/17/11) at center in place of the injured Tyson Chandler (sprained right ankle). He recorded 10 points and five boards. It was the fifth time he’s scored in double figures this season (5-0 record). He’s averaging 8.7 points and 6.2 rebounds since 2/16.

The Mavericks improved to 34-2 when they score 100-plus points in a game.

The Mavericks next game is vs. Memphis on March 6 at 7:30 p.m. CT