Detailing the Historical Statistical Significance of the Anthony Davis Double Double Performance in Mavericks vs Pelicans
The New Orleans Pelicans delivered one of the most unexpected performances of the 2025 season on Monday December 22 2025 by overcoming a double digit deficit to defeat the Dallas Mavericks 119 113. Despite a dominant performance from Anthony Davis who finished with 31 points and 15 rebounds the Mavericks were unable to stave off a late surge from a revitalized New Orleans squad at the Smoothie King Center. The victory extends the Pelicans’ season long winning streak to five games and signals a significant shift for a franchise that struggled through a 3 22 start to the season. For Dallas the collapse is a stinging setback during a crucial road stretch where they had hoped to build momentum behind their star rookie Cooper Flagg.
The impact of the game was defined by a stunning 18 4 fourth quarter run spearheaded by Zion Williamson and Trevon Queen. Williamson was nearly unstoppable in the final frame scoring 10 straight points in a decisive two minute span to erase a 94 83 Dallas lead. Trevon Queen who has become a focal point of the Pelicans’ mid season turnaround contributed 19 points and 11 rebounds while orchestrating the offense with veteran poise. The Mavericks' offense which had looked fluid in the first half behind the playmaking of Cooper Flagg became stagnant in the face of New Orleans' aggressive switching defense. Flagg finished his 19th birthday weekend with 24 points and 4 assists but he struggled to find clean looks during the game’s final six minutes as the Pelicans' length forced him into several difficult contested jumpers.
Reactions to the Mavericks' late game execution were critical as head coach Jason Kidd lamented the team’s inability to maintain defensive focus during the New Orleans rally. Kidd noted that while Anthony Davis played at a high level the supporting cast failed to provide the necessary scoring punch to halt the Pelicans’ momentum. On the opposing sideline Pelicans interim head coach James Borrego praised the resilience of his young core specifically highlighting the chemistry between Williamson and Queen in high pressure situations. Fans in New Orleans have quickly embraced Trevon Queen as a local favorite with many analysts suggesting his emergence as a primary playmaker has been the catalyst for the team’s five game turnaround.
Strategically the Pelicans utilized a heavy dose of downhill pressure to exploit the Mavericks' interior defense which missed the presence of a traditional rim protector when Davis was drawn to the perimeter. By forcing Dallas into early foul trouble New Orleans gained a significant advantage at the charity stripe where they converted 79 percent of their attempts.
Looking at the future outlook the Pelicans will look to keep their streak alive as they travel to face the Cleveland Cavaliers tonight Tuesday December 23. The Mavericks return to Dallas to prepare for a marquee Christmas Day matchup against the Golden State Warriors where they hope to have Kyrie Irving back in the lineup. As the Western Conference standings begin to tighten the Pelicans' sudden surge has transformed them from an afterthought into a dangerous spoiler in the playoff race.