In his 11th start, rookie Jordan Hawkins shone with a season-high 34 points, leading the New Orleans Pelicans to a 118-108 victory over the Dallas Mavericks on Saturday night. Despite a late arrival in Dallas following a previous loss to Denver, Hawkins, the 14th overall draft pick from UConn last summer, embraced the opportunity. Pelicans coach Willie Green praised Hawkins’ disciplined game plan, exceptional shot-making, and two-way contributions. Hawkins made six 3-pointers on 12 attempts, falling just short of his season’s best. Kyrie Irving led the Mavericks with 33 points, but Dallas struggled without key players like Luka Doncic. The Pelicans capitalized on their deep shooting in the third quarter, hitting 7 of 9 3-pointers to secure the win. Dallas coach Jason Kidd acknowledged the team’s lack of physicality, unable to explain their performance. Despite missing key players, the Pelicans showcased roster depth, while reserve Mаxi Kleber returned for Dallas after an extended absence, contributing two points and two rebounds in 11 minutes.