On Tuesday night, Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving led the Dallas Mavericks to a 96-93 win over the LA Clippers. The series will now shift to Dallas tied 1-1.
Doncic’s immense ability was on full display in Dallas’ win. Known for his explosive offense, Doncic played arguably the best defense of his career down the stretch — guarding Kawhi Leonard, Paul George and James Harden at a high level. With the game on the line, the star drained two step-back three-pointers in the fourth quarter. The second three came with 1:26 remaining and all but sealed the win for the Mavs.
Overall, Doncic finished with 32 points and nine assists. Coach Jason Kidd acknowledged his star’s effort on the defensive end following the victory.
“I think his defense has been great this whole series,” Kidd said. “We know they’re going to put him in pick-and-roll. A couple years ago we saw this, and we had to tell him to participate. But I think he’s participating at a high level on both ends. He’s leading not just on the offensive end but also the defensive end.”
According to ESPN Stats & Information, the Clippers shot a paltry 2-of-17 when Doncic was the primary defender.
“When he gets his stops like this and pushes it, it’s even more fun for us because we already know what he does on offense,” said Maxi Kleber. “It spreads to everybody else. He’s bringing the energy, and he’s going to set the tone for us. And when he does stuff like that, it gives everybody juice.”
Irving chipped in 23 points in 42 minutes for the shorthanded Mavs. Both Daniel Gafford (back) and Tim Hardaway Jr. (ankle) played less than 10 minutes after suffering injuries, leaving Dallas with seven rotation players for the bulk of the game. Game 3 will take place on Friday, April 26, in Dallas.
