Dallas Mavericks forward Josh Howard reacts after hitting a three-point shot against the San Antonio Spurs during second half action in Game Two of the Western Conference semi-finals in San Antonio on Tuesday night. The Mavericks defeated the Spurs 113-91. - REUTERS
NEW YORK (Reuters):
JOSH HOWARD scored 27 points and had nine rebounds to fire the Dallas Mavericks to a convincing 113-91 win over the San Antonio Spurs in NBA play-off action on Tuesday night.
Dirk Nowitzki added 21 points and had nine rebounds for the Mavericks, who tied the best-of-seven Western Conference second-round series 1-1. The series now moves to Dallas for Games Three and Four on Saturday and Monday.
In the only other NBA game played on Tuesday night, Rasheed Wallace scored 29 points and had nine rebounds to help the Detroit Pistons beat the Cleveland Cavaliers 97-91 in Auburn Hills.
The Pistons lead the best-of-seven series 2-0 heading into Games Three and Four in Cleveland.
SLUGGISH SPURS
In San Antonio, the Mavericks charged into a 21-point lead before the half and cruised to the surprisingly-easy victory, as the Spurs appeared sluggish after playing two quick games following a tough 4-2 win over Sacramento in the opening round.
Devin Harris scored 20 points for the Mavericks, who found a way to solve the tough Spurs defence and shoot 46 per cent from the field.
Jerry Stackhouse added 19 points for Dallas who also made 35 of 43 free throw attempts.
Tim Duncan had another strong offensive game for the Spurs with 28 points and nine rebounds, but he was not as dominant as he was in the Game One victory.
Tony Parker had 15 points and Manu Ginobili chipped in with 13 for the Spurs who shot 46 per cent.
In Auburn Hills, the Pistons hung on to win despite another brilliant performance from LeBron James.
STRONG RUN
The Pistons carved out an early 22-point lead, but the Cavs made a strong run late in the fourth quarter to make a game of it, getting to within five points.
The Cavs now have to find a way to get back into the series at home against the twice defending Eastern Conference champions.
"We can't have any hesitation in our game at all and defensively it has to be the same," Cleveland coach Mike Brown said. "We have to attack, attack and attack."
Tayshaun Prince added 20 points for the Pistons while Richard Hamilton contributed 17. Ben Wallace hauled down 15 rebounds and scored 10 points for the winners.
James led all scorers with 30 points and had 14 rebounds and seven assists, while Drew Gooden chipped in with 17 points and eight rebounds.
