The Dallas Mavericks secured their spot in the Western Conference finals for the second time in three years with a thrilling 117-116 comeback victory over the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder. While stars Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving had their moments, it was the contributions from newly added players that made all the difference.

PJ Washington, Derek Lively II, and Derrick Jones Jr., acquired through various means, made crucial plays in the final minutes of the game to secure the Mavericks' comeback from a 17-point deficit. Dončić praised Washington and Jones Jr. as "dogs" who played with unwavering determination. He also hailed rookie Lively II for his fearlessness on the court.

Washington, known for his relatively low free-throw shooting percentage in the postseason, stepped up in a high-pressure situation. With the Mavericks trailing by one point and only 2.5 seconds left, he calmly sank two free throws to give his team the lead. In a strategic move, Washington intentionally missed the final free throw, preventing the Thunder from setting up a play. Unable to call a timeout, the Thunder's desperate three-quarter heave fell wide left, sealing the Mavericks' victory.

Head coach Jason Kidd commended Washington's decision to miss the free throw in the ideal way, preventing the Thunder from setting up an offensive play. The pivotal play began with Dončić losing his balance but finding Washington on the court, who drew a foul while attempting a shot. Despite the mistakes leading up to Washington's heroics, his crucial contribution propelled the Mavericks forward.

Derrick Jones Jr. also played a crucial role, bailing out Irving by converting a turnaround fadeaway jumper over 7-foot defender Holmgren as the shot clock expired. Jones Jr.'s shot extended the Mavericks' lead to five points, providing a significant advantage late in the game.

The acquisitions made by Mavericks' general manager Nico Harrison paid off in the team's pivotal victory. Harrison's belief in the Dončić-Irving partnership never wavered, and he strategically built a supporting cast around them. Lively II, a rim protector and lob threat, proved invaluable for the team. Washington, a versatile stretch 4 with defensive skills, displayed his value in clutch moments. Meanwhile, Jones Jr., a bargain three-and-D wing, rounded out the team's roster.

The Mavericks' triumph is even more remarkable considering the significant personnel changes since their last conference finals appearance. Dončić and Josh Green are the only remaining players from that team. While Harrison faced criticism for various decisions, including letting Jalen Brunson sign with the New York Knicks, his vision and acquisition of key players proved successful.

As the Mavericks now find themselves in familiar territory, the Western Conference finals, it is a testament to the team's resilience and the impact of their newly added players. The Mavericks are primed for a fierce battle as they continue their pursuit of the NBA Finals.