With just three games remaining in the regular season, the Dallas Mavericks took the court Wednesday night with the look of a team ready for the offseason. A staggering eight players were listed as out, mirroring the approach of teams like Utah and Memphis who are focused on future draft capital.

Despite the depleted roster, the Mavericks' bench unit provided a silver lining, delivering one of their most spirited efforts of the year. Marvin Bagley III erupted for 20 points and eight rebounds, hitting three shots from beyond the arc, while Max Christie added 18 points of his own with four made threes.

The standout performance, however, belonged to two-way guard John Poulakidas. In a breakout showing, the rookie poured in a career-high 23 points, sinking five three-pointers in Dallas's 112-107 loss to the Phoenix Suns. His sharp shooting is the kind of development that excites fans and front offices alike.

Rookie sensation Cooper Flagg battled through a wrist injury to record his 13th double-double of the season with 11 points and 13 rebounds. While he's struggled with efficiency lately, shooting under 40% from the field for a second straight game, his toughness and all-around effort remain undeniable.

The Mavericks will look to finish the season strong when they face the San Antonio Spurs on Friday night.