The NBA playoffs are heating up with the Dallas Mavericks set to face the Los Angeles Clippers in the first-round competition of the Western Conference. This matchup, confirmed before the play-in tournament next week, promises to be an intense battle between two talented teams.
This will mark the third postseason encounter between the Clippers and the Mavericks' star, Luka Doncic, since his league debut in 2018. In their previous two series in 2020 and 2021, Doncic showcased his prowess by averaging 31 points, 9.8 rebounds, and 8.7 assists per game in 2020, and an impressive 35.7 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 10.3 assists per game in 2021.
Despite Doncic's stellar performances, the Mavericks fell short, losing to the Clippers 4-2 in 2020 and 4-3 in 2021. A recurring theme in both series was Doncic's ability to dominate the court, but as the games progressed, fatigue began to take its toll. Additionally, when Kawhi Leonard took charge of the Clippers' offense in the fourth quarters, the Mavericks struggled to contain him, regardless of who was guarding him.
As the Mavericks aim to advance further in the playoffs, the Clippers will look to leverage their experience and strategic adjustments to overcome Doncic and his team. Fans around the world are eagerly anticipating this clash of titans, hoping to witness another memorable chapter in their postseason rivalry.
Reference(s):
NBA playoffs preview: Can Luka Doncic beat Clippers this time?
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