The Dallas Mavericks earned their second consecutive win on Thursday despite eight players being ruled out due to injuries. Anthony Davis, Kyrie Irving and Klay Thompson were among the Mavericks who did not play in the team’s 118-113 win against the Miami Heat.

It was a significant moment in Exum’s extensive journey back from a severe wrist injury that required surgery. The veteran guard missed the first three months of the season, but his return in Friday’s 117-102 loss to the Detroit Pistons was a sign that the Mavericks are one step closer to becoming healthy.