Dirk Nowitzki scored 19 points in the first half as the Dallas Mavericks came back from a 31-19 deficit to the Portland Trail Blazers to lead 52-43 by halftime. With a win, the Mavericks will advance to the second round of the NBA Playoffs to face the Los Angeles Lakers, who earlier eliminated the New Orleans Hornets.
Mavericks Vs. Blazers Score: Dirk Nowitzki, Jason Terry Lead Dallas To 52-43 Halftime Lead
Dallas outscoured Portland 33-16 in the second quarter, moving well in transition and getting a strong bench contribution from Jason Terry (10 points, five assists). The Mavericks had just two turnovers in the first half; giveaways have been a strong indicator in this series, with Dallas struggling when the turnover total adds up.
The Blazers have hit just two of 10 three-pointers. Gerald Wallace leads the team with 13 points on 5-7 shooting, but played just 11 minutes in the first half due to a back injury. LaMarcus Aldridge has 12 points, but needed 13 field goal attempts to get there.
Brandon Roy, the hero in Game 4 in the Rose Garden, has six points on 3-5 shooting.
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