Dallas Mavericks’ talisman Luka Doncic returned to action after missing the last two games due to a left heel contusion. On his return, the Slovenian scored 27 points as the Dallas Mavericks registered a 132-108 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers on Monday night.

Doncic was delighted with the win and said he was happy that the team came up with a collective effort.

“Nothing really special,” added Doncic, who also had seven rebounds and seven assists playing 30 minutes. “The important thing was we got the win. I think everybody was involved, and that’s how we’ve got to play.”

Five Mavericks players scored in double digits as the whole team delivered collectively on the court with Daniel Gafford and Kyrie Irving scoring 23 and 20 points respectively. 

With this win, the Mavericks improved their overall record to 19-10. The previous season’s runners-up have won 14 out of their last 17 games and they will look to carry the winning impetus in the upcoming matches.

Meanwhile, Doncic got off to a rusty start but scored 10 points in the second quarter. Head coach Jason Kidd showered praise on Doncic, saying the linchpin knows how to use his body to position himself better.

“He knows how to use his body to position himself,” Mavericks coach Jason Kidd said. “He knows the space that he has to get to, and he does it at a very high level. So, if it’s not an and-1, he’s going to the free-throw line. For him being out, getting to the free throw line was important just to get his rhythm.”

Dallas Mavericks will next take on the Minnesota Timberwolves on Wednesday.