NBA 2018-19: 3 Talking points from Dallas Mavericks vs Brooklyn Nets

#3 The Nets' reserves show up; Dirk is forever welcomed

Dirk Nowitzki is expected to retire after this season

The Brooklyn Nets bench stepped up in a big way, adding up for 68 points against the Dallas reserves who could combine for just 31. DeMarre Carroll came off the bench and dropped a team-high total of 22 points, shooting 5-7 from deep. Dinwiddie and LeVert combined for 34 points in a game where Coach Atkinson tried to experiment with the starting lineup and bench.

Dirk Nowitzki received a huge round of applause when he checked in for the final seconds in the third quarter. The fans at Barclays Center roared behind every shot of his and took the roof off when he hit a jumper in the dying minutes. Despite shooting 2-of-13 on the night and finishing with just 4 points, Nowitzki was never short of love in this road game.

"So I am really appreciative," he said. "I enjoy it, but I enjoy winning a little better."