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Warriors Defeat Mavericks in Christmas Day Showdown, Marked by Curry’s Clutch Performance and Thompson’s Emotional Return

SAN FRANCISCO – The Golden State Warriors treated their fans to a Christmas Day victory, defeating the Dallas Mavericks 126-116 in a game highlighted by Stephen Curry’s 23 points and a crucial late 3-pointer. Jimmy Butler contributed a near double-double with 14 points, nine assists, and nine rebounds.

The Mavericks, despite a strong 27-point performance from rookie star Cooper Flagg in his NBA debut, couldn’t overcome the Warriors’ balanced attack. Brandon Williams added 26 points off the bench for Dallas.

The game was especially emotional as Klay Thompson returned to face his former Warriors team after missing the previous game due to knee soreness. He received a warm welcome from the crowd upon entering the game, and shared a pregame embrace with former “Splash Brother” Stephen Curry.

“It was great to see him out there,” Curry said after the game. “Klay is a Warrior for life.”

The Mavericks suffered a blow when center Anthony Davis left the game in the second quarter with groin spasms and did not return. He finished with three points and three rebounds.

Draymond Green, playing under scrutiny after a recent sideline disagreement with coach Steve Kerr, contributed seven points and five rebounds while battling foul trouble.

The Warriors started slowly from beyond the arc, but Al Horford’s return from a seven-game absence due to sciatica provided a spark. Horford made all four of his 3-point attempts in the first quarter, helping Golden State establish a lead. Moses Moody connecting on the first 3-pointer for the Warriors also contributed to them getting going. Horford finished with 14 points, De’Anthony Melton scored 16, and Brandin Podziemski added 13 points off the bench.

Looking ahead, the Mavericks will travel to Sacramento to face the Kings on Saturday, while the Warriors will head to Toronto for a Sunday matchup against the Raptors.

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