The Dallas Mavericks ultimately came up short on Sunday as they attempted to mount a massive comeback against a shorthanded Los Angeles Clippers side in Game 1 of their NBA Playoffs first-round matchup.
After struggling mightily throughout the contest — including an embarrassing eight-point second quarter — the Mavs clawed their way back in the final frame, outscoring the Clippers 33-22. In the end, however, LA held on to secure a 109-97 victory to go up 1-0 in the series.
Dallas Mavericks News: Luka Doncic Reacts to Brutal Game 1 Loss Vs. Clippers
After the game, a disappointed Luka Doncic opened up about Dallas’ mindset heading into the contest with Kawhi Leonard nursing a knee injury. Leonard was ultimately ruled out for the game, which may have inadvertently thrown the Mavs off.
Doncic hinted that the turn of events may have impacted his team in a negative manner:
“We were prepared like he was gonna play,” Doncic said. “But that shouldn’t change our mentality. Their mentality was next man up. I think they executed very well.”
“We were prepared like he was gonna play. But that shouldn't change our mentality. Their mentality was next man up. I think they executed very well.”
Luka Doncic on how the Mavs preparation was affected by Kawhi Leonard being out for Game 1.
(via @TomerAzarly) pic.twitter.com/nPotcQtN6W
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) April 21, 2024
Doncic did all he could in this one, finishing with a game-high 33 points on 11-of-26 shooting, 13 rebounds, six assists, and four triples. Kyrie Irving did his bit too, going off for 31 points on 10-of-18 from the floor, along with seven rebounds, four dimes, and two steals.
Despite the heroics of their superstar duo, the Mavs still succumbed to the Clippers. Dallas will need to do much better in Game 2 on Tuesday — with or without Kawhi in the picture.
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