When the Dallas Mavericks signed Dante Exum over the summer, many fans questioned the move.
Exum was out of the NBA for several seasons and could never stay healthy. His young career was plagued by injuries, but while he played overseas he turned into an effective shooter and is currently having an effective season in Dallas.
Exum was a great starter, battling injuries and playing a key role in the Mavs' 114-108 victory over the Miami Heat on Thursday night.
Exum finished with 13 points, four rebounds and five assists while shooting 3-5 from the field, 2-2 downtown and 5-5 from the free throw line. He hit some big shots down the stretch and hit some clutch free throws when it mattered most.
The Mavs need Exum to get back to the player he was earlier in the season, and his coming out party comes at the perfect time, especially as Tim Hardaway Jr. continues to struggle.
Luka Doncic also played well in this game, scoring 35 points on 12-for-24 shooting from the field and 7-for-13 shooting from downtown, with 11 rebounds, 11 assists, and 1 steal. Doncic showed up in the most important moments of the game, showing poise and leadership among his teammates even in the game's toughest moments.
The Mavs desperately needed this win against the Heat after Tuesday's loss to the Indiana Pacers was their third straight loss. Dallas' defense will need to improve even more to compete in the Western Conference.
Thursday's win against the Heat was a step in the right direction.
Check out the latest information on Dante Exum, Luka Doncic, and the Dallas Mavericks this season.
