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Mavericks try to keep playoff hopes alive

Mar 7, 2009 - 11:20 AM Washington (14-48) at Dallas (37-25) 8:30 p.m. EST

DALLAS (Ticker) -- After suffering a disheartening and lopsided loss on Thursday night, the Dallas Mavericks caught a break a day later when their primary competitor for the West's last playoff spot - the Phoenix Suns - suffered a setback of their own.

Now, the Mavericks will try to hang on to their three-game lead over Phoenix on Saturday night as they host the lowly Washington Wizards.

In Thursday's contest, the Hornets turned a tight ballgame into a blowout in the second half, converting 12 straight field goals in the third quarter to take control over the Mavericks. All-Star forward Dirk Nowitzki scored 27 points for Dallas, but it wasn't nearly enough.

The Wizards, meanwhile, are making a play for the top pick in the draft this year. Based on the current standings, they would have the second-most lottery balls in the league - with only the 13-win Sacramento Kings having better odds to snag the top pick.

Washington fell on the road to the San Antonio Spurs, 100-78, on Friday.