The visiting Dallas Mavericks became the latest team to topple the reconstructed Orlando Magic, winning 105-99 in the NBA yesterday.

Caron Butler scored 20 points and Dirk Nowitzki had 17 to help the Mavericks pull away in the fourth quarter for their 16th win in 17 games. A night after ending Miami's 12-game streak, Dallas shot 50 percent from the floor, including 46 percent from 3-point range.

The Magic have lost their first two games since Gilbert Arenas, Jason Richardson and Hedo Turkoglu were acquired on Saturday, and eight of their past nine.

Dwight Howard had 26 points and 23 rebounds but got little help from teammates.

Thunder 99, Bobcats 81

In Charlotte, Oklahoma City overcame a poor shooting night by dominating the fourth quarter in a victory over reeling Charlotte.

The Thunder entered the final period trailing 69-68, but responded with a 25-3 run. The Bobcats missed their first 11 shots, committed five turnovers and didn't get their first field goal until 2:52 remained, producing sarcastic cheers.

Oklahoma's Kevin Durant scored 32 points, hitting 14-of-16 free throws and adding seven rebounds.

Stephen Jackson scored 20 points for the Bobcats, who dropped their fourth straight as coach Larry Brown continues to question their effort.

Bulls 121, 76ers 76

In Chicago, the home team beat Philadelphia for its eighth win in nine games.

Despite missing big men Joakim Noah and Taj Gibson, Chicago dominated nearly every offensive category and recorded its most lopsided win of the season.

Derrick Rose and Luol Deng each scored 22 points. Rose also had 12 assists for his seventh double-double.

Andre Iguodala scored 17 points for Philadelphia.

Nets 101, Grizzlies 94

In Memphis, New Jersey snapped a 10-game road losing skid by beating Memphis.

Brook Lopez scored 26 points and Sasha Vujacic added a season-high 16. Lopez was 8 of 14 from the field, and missed only one of his 11 free throws.

The Nets outrebounded Memphis 49-39.

Marc Gasol scored 19 points to lead the Grizzlies.