NBA: Dallas 94, New Orleans 90

DALLAS, Dec. 15 (UPI) -- Jose Barea led Dallas with 23 points and the Mavericks won their fourth straight game Monday, defeating the New Orleans Hornets 94-90.

Dirk Nowitzki scored on a layup and Jason Terry dropped in two free throws to hold off the Hornets in the final 20 seconds.

Josh Howard had 14 points, Jason Kid had 13 points and 13 assists and Nowitzki scored eight of his 10 points in the fourth quarter.

Chris Paul recorded 20 points, 16 assists and five steals for New Orleans.