Instant Reactions: John Poulakidas scores 23 points in Mavericks loss to Suns

With only three games left in the regular season, the Mavericks entered Wednesday night looking every bit like a team nearing the finish line.

Dallas listed eight players as out Wednesday night, giving off the same vibe as teams like the Utah Jazz and Memphis Grizzlies, who have spent the closing stretch of the season prioritizing draft position.

But even while shorthanded, the Mavericks’ reserves delivered some of their best performances of the season.

Marvin Bagley III finished with 20 points and eight rebounds while knocking down trree 3-pointers. Max Christie added 18 points, including four made 3s.

Still, John Poulakidas turned in the best performance of his young NBA career.

The Mavericks’ two-way guard scored 23 points and knocked down five 3-pointers in Dallas’ 112-107 loss to the Phoenix Suns on Wednesday night.

Cooper Flagg added 11 points and 13 rebounds, recording his 13th double-double of the season.

It was also Flagg’s second straight game shooting under 40 percent from the field, which won’t help his efficiency numbers. Still, he continued to play through a wrist injury.

The Mavericks will face the San Antonio Spurs on Friday.