Cavaliers Dominate Mavericks, Durant Lifts Rockets in Thriller

NBA Roundup: Mobley's big game leads Cavs, Durant's clutch shot seals Rockets' win

Mar. 14, 2026 at 12:40pm

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The Cleveland Cavaliers cruised to a decisive victory over the Dallas Mavericks, led by Evan Mobley's 29 points. The Houston Rockets narrowly defeated the New Orleans Pelicans thanks to a game-winning shot from Kevin Durant in the final seconds. Elsewhere, the New York Knicks grinded out a win over the Indiana Pacers, and the Toronto Raptors mounted a late comeback to overcome the Phoenix Suns.

Why it matters

These games showcase the importance of versatile big men, clutch performances from star players, and the development of young talent across the NBA. The Cavaliers' success without Jarrett Allen highlights their depth, while the Knicks' reliance on late-game execution underscores the value of experience and composure. The Raptors' comeback win demonstrates the power of resilience and offensive firepower.

The details

In the Cavaliers' win over the Mavericks, Evan Mobley led the way with 29 points on 12-of-15 shooting. Donovan Mitchell added 24 points and 8 assists, and James Harden chipped in 17 points and 7 assists. For the Mavericks, Cooper Flagg scored 25 points, but Klay Thompson struggled from the bench, missing all five of his three-point attempts. The Knicks secured a hard-fought victory against the Pacers, with Mikal Bridges hitting a crucial three-pointer late. Jalen Brunson led the Knicks with 29 points, while O.G. Anunoby added 25. Mitchell Robinson set a new career-high with 22 rebounds. Ariel Hukporti saw limited playing time for the Cavaliers, recording one rebound and one assist in 13 minutes. The Raptors mounted a late comeback against the Suns, fueled by 36 points from Brandon Ingram. Jalen Green and Devin Booker combined for 65 points for Phoenix, but their efforts weren't enough to prevent the loss. In the Rockets' narrow win over the Pelicans, Kevin Durant hit the game-winning shot with seven seconds remaining. Dejounte Murray led the Rockets with 35 points, and Zion Williamson contributed 21 for the Pelicans. Durant finished with 32 points, Amen Thompson added 23 points and 12 rebounds, and Reed Sheppard chipped in 18 points.

  • On March 14, 2026, the Cavaliers defeated the Mavericks in Dallas.
  • On March 14, 2026, the Knicks secured a hard-fought win against the Pacers.
  • On March 14, 2026, the Raptors mounted a late comeback to overcome the Suns.
  • On March 14, 2026, the Rockets narrowly defeated the Pelicans thanks to a game-winning shot from Kevin Durant.

The players

Evan Mobley

A versatile big man for the Cleveland Cavaliers who led the team with 29 points in their win over the Mavericks.

Kevin Durant

The star player for the Houston Rockets who hit the game-winning shot to defeat the Pelicans.

Mitchell Robinson

The New York Knicks center who set a new career-high with 22 rebounds in their win over the Pacers.

Cooper Flagg

The leading scorer for the Dallas Mavericks with 25 points in their loss to the Cavaliers.

Ariel Hukporti

The Cavaliers player who saw limited playing time, recording one rebound and one assist in 13 minutes.

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What they’re saying

“We must continue to find ways to win, even when facing adversity. The team's depth and adaptability have been crucial to our success.”

— Evan Mobley, Cleveland Cavaliers Player (Cleveland.com)

“In the NBA, it often comes down to making the right plays in the clutch. I'm proud of the team for staying composed and executing when it mattered most.”

— Kevin Durant (Houston Chronicle)

What’s next

The Cavaliers will look to continue their push for a higher playoff seed, while the Rockets aim to build on their narrow victory over the Pelicans. The Knicks and Raptors will also seek to maintain their momentum as the season winds down.

The takeaway

These games highlight the importance of versatile big men, clutch performances from star players, and the development of young talent across the NBA. The Cavaliers' success without Jarrett Allen, the Knicks' reliance on late-game execution, and the Raptors' comeback win all demonstrate the diverse strategies and skills required to succeed in the modern NBA.