Luka Doncic led the Dallas Mavericks to a commanding 123-93 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers in Game 5, securing a 3-2 lead in their first-round series. Doncic's stellar performance included 35 points, 10 assists, and seven rebounds, with 20 points coming in the second half. Maxi Kleber's five 3-pointers and Kyrie Irving's 14 points also contributed significantly to the Mavericks' win.
The Mavericks' strong defensive effort limited the Clippers' offensive output, marking their second decisive victory in Los Angeles during the series. Dallas now stands on the brink of their first playoff series victory since 2022 and only their third since winning the NBA title in 2011.
Despite playing with a sprained right knee, Doncic showcased his prowess as the game progressed, particularly in the third quarter where he scored 14 points. The Clippers failed to mount a comeback in the fourth quarter, as the Mavericks maintained control of the game.
The series now shifts to Dallas for Game 6 on Friday night, with a potential Game 7 scheduled back in Los Angeles on Sunday. Paul George and Ivica Zubac led the Clippers with 15 points each, but the absence of Kawhi Leonard due to right knee inflammation proved challenging for the team.
George struggled with his shooting, going 4 for 13, while James Harden had a tough night, shooting 2 for 12. The Clippers' supporting cast tried to keep them in the game, but Dallas' defense proved too strong. Both teams rested their starters in the fourth quarter in preparation for the next game.
Doncic and Irving overcame slow starts to help the Mavericks build a halftime lead. Kleber's contributions, including a buzzer-beating 3-pointer, were crucial in the first half. The Clippers' offense faltered under Dallas' defensive pressure, with Zubac and Terance Mann providing limited support.
Despite Leonard's absence in previous games, the Clippers had managed to secure victories. However, Game 5 proved to be a different story as the team struggled to find offensive rhythm. The Clippers now face the possibility of their last home game at the Staples Center before moving to the Intuit Dome next season in Inglewood.
Overall, the Mavericks' dominant performance in Game 5 puts them in a favorable position as they aim to close out the series in the upcoming games.
