If we've learned anything in these NBA playoffs, it's that the Dallas Mavericks can never be counted out. In Game 4 of the Western Conference Finals, a Herculean performance by Dirk Nowitzki dug the Mavs out of a 15-point hole before Dallas took home the win in overtime. And in Game 2 of the NBA Finals, Dallas did it again, storming back from a 13-point deficit with six minutes to go in the fourth quarter to down the Miami Heat, 95-93.
Heat Vs. Mavericks, Game 2: Dirk Nowitzki, Dallas Mount Impressive Comeback Again In 95-93 Win
Coming into Game 2, Dallas was already facing its share of adversity. Nowitzki was dealing with a torn tendon in his left middle finger, and nobody was sure exactly how the Mavericks’ star would perform in the splint meant to protect the injury. As the Miami Heat made another fourth quarter run, it looked like the Mavs would be heading back to Dallas in an 0-2 hole after an unsuccessful trip to South Beach.
After Dwyane Wade hit a three in front of the Dallas bench to put the Heat up 15 with seven minutes to play, the Mavs were in a dire situation. But the Mavericks punched back, using strong defense to lock down the Heat while Nowitzki and Jason Terry took over on the offensive end. Miami would make just one more bucket over the final seven-plus minutes -- a late three by Mario Chalmers -- as Dallas went on a 22-5 run capped by Nowitzki's blow-by lay-in that proved to be the game-winner.
Wade’s desperation three fell short at the buzzer and the Mavericks had completed another jaw-dropping comeback to even the series at one game apiece. Instead of the Heat taking a commanding 2-0 lead to Dallas, the Mavericks turned the tables, and will return home with a bit of a mental edge after snatching victory from the jaws of defeat.
Be sure to check out our 2011 NBA Finals hub for more on the series. For more on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. For more on the Mavericks, visit Mavs Moneyball and SB Nation Dallas.
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