In Game 5 of the first-round series between the Dallas Mavericks and the LA Clippers, Luka Doncic led the charge with 35 points, 10 assists, and seven rebounds, helping the Mavericks secure a 123-93 victory and take a 3-2 lead in the series. Doncic, playing with a sprained right knee, showcased his skills as the Mavericks’ primary playmaker, helping the team close in on their first playoff series victory since 2022. Maxi Kleber and Kyrie Irving also contributed to the win, with Kleber hitting five 3-pointers and Irving adding 14 points.
The Clippers, playing without Kawhi Leonard due to right knee inflammation, struggled to keep up with the Mavericks’ offensive firepower and defensive intensity. Paul George and Ivica Zubac tried to step up in Leonard’s absence, but their efforts were not enough to overcome the Mavericks’ strong performance. Despite the absence of their leading scorer, the Clippers were unable to replicate the success they had earlier in the series against the Mavericks.
In a game marked by strong defensive play from the Mavericks, the Clippers’ offensive stars, George and Harden, had difficulty finding their rhythm and were unable to make a significant impact on the game. Both teams eventually pulled their starters in the fourth quarter to rest for Game 6, which is set to take place in Dallas. If needed, a Game 7 would be played back in Los Angeles on Sunday.
Despite a slow start from beyond the arc, Doncic and Irving helped the Mavericks build a 10-point halftime lead in Game 5. The team’s defensive pressure caused issues for the Clippers, who struggled to find their scoring touch early in the game. Zubac provided a spark for the Clippers in the first half, but the team’s supporting cast was unable to keep up with the Mavericks’ offensive output in the second half.
In the pivotal third quarter, Doncic took over the game, scoring 14 points and extending the Mavericks’ lead to 23 points. The Clippers failed to find an answer to the Mavericks’ offensive onslaught, going on a scoring drought and committing turnovers that allowed Dallas to pull away. With Leonard’s availability uncertain for the remainder of the series, the Clippers face the possibility of their last home game at the Staples Center before moving to the Intuit Dome.
The Mavericks now have the opportunity to close out the series at home in Game 6, with the chance to advance to the next round of the playoffs. Doncic’s stellar performance in Game 5 showcased his talent and leadership on the court, propelling the Mavericks to a crucial victory. As the series heads back to Dallas, both teams will look to make necessary adjustments and fight for a spot in the next round of the playoffs.
