DALLAS (AP) — The Dallas Mavericks showcased their offensive prowess on Saturday night, defeating the Utah Jazz 138-120 in a game that saw Klay Thompson reach a significant career milestone. Thompson scored all 23 of his points in the first half, including the 17,000th point of his career, further solidifying his status as one of the league's elite shooters. The win marked the second consecutive victory for the Mavericks over the Jazz in a span of just ten days, completing a two-game sweep of their Western Conference rivals. Dallas has now faced Utah three times within a short timeframe, and the Mavericks have managed to assert their dominance, outscoring the Jazz in each matchup. Thompson, who has been a key player for the Mavericks since joining the team, ignited the crowd at the American Airlines Center with his impressive first-half performance. He not only reached the 17,000-point milestone but also played a pivotal role in setting the tone for the game early on. His ability to sink shots from beyond the arc was instrumental, as he connected on multiple three-pointers, leaving the Jazz scrambling on defense. The Mavericks displayed a well-rounded offensive attack, with six players scoring in double figures. Luka Dončić led the team with a significant contribution of 30 points and 10 assists, demonstrating his all-around game and ability to facilitate plays. The chemistry among the Mavericks' roster was evident, as players moved the ball effectively, leading to high-percentage shots and open looks. In addition to Thompson and Dončić, other contributors included Tim Hardaway Jr., who added 25 points, and Christian Wood, who tallied 22 points off the bench. The balanced scoring effort highlighted the depth of the Mavericks' roster and their ability to rely on multiple players to carry the offensive load. On the defensive side, the Mavericks were equally impressive, limiting the Jazz to only 120 points while forcing several turnovers throughout the game. Dallas's defensive strategy proved effective against the Jazz's star players, including Lauri Markkanen and Jordan Clarkson, who were held to below their season averages. Markkanen managed to score 19 points, but struggled to find his rhythm against the Mavericks' defense. Clarkson added 18 points, but his contributions came primarily in the second half when the outcome was largely decided. The first half saw the Mavericks jump out to a commanding lead, with Thompson's scoring blitz establishing a significant cushion. By halftime, Dallas had built a 20-point lead, and the Jazz faced an uphill battle. Despite a spirited effort in the second half, during which Utah attempted to claw back into the game, the Mavericks maintained control. In the third quarter, the Jazz made a concerted effort to reduce the deficit. They turned up their defensive pressure and began hitting shots from long range, sparked by Clarkson's offensive bursts. However, the Mavericks responded effectively, with Dončić orchestrating the offense and ensuring that the Jazz never got too close. As the game progressed into the fourth quarter, the Mavericks continued to execute their game plan, and the lead remained steady. The crowd remained engaged, cheering as Thompson and Dončić connected on several highlight plays that showcased their synergy on the court. This victory not only reinforces the Mavericks' strong position in the Western Conference standings but also highlights their potential as serious contenders in the playoffs. With key players like Thompson, Dončić, and Hardaway Jr. finding their rhythm, Dallas appears poised to make a significant impact as the season progresses. The Jazz, on the other hand, will need to regroup following this defeat. With a challenging schedule ahead, Utah must focus on tightening their defense and improving their offensive consistency if they wish to remain competitive in the playoff race. Head coach Will Hardy expressed his disappointment following the game, emphasizing the need for better execution on both ends of the floor. Overall, Saturday's matchup was a testament to the Mavericks' strength and cohesion as a team, while also serving as a wake-up call for the Jazz. As the season continues, both teams will aim to build on their performances, with Dallas looking to solidify their place in the postseason and Utah seeking to bounce back from consecutive losses. The rivalry between these two teams, intensified by their recent matchups, promises to deliver more thrilling moments as the NBA season unfolds.