Clippers vs Mavericks: Dallas’ Preseason Blues Continue
The Los Angeles Clippers comfortably defeated the Dallas Mavericks 110-96 in a preseason matchup, leaving Dallas with more questions than answers ahead of the regular season. With a third consecutive loss, the Mavericks, who were hoping to emerge as title contenders, find themselves struggling to build momentum. Their biggest offseason acquisition, Klay Thompson, had a night to forget, going 0-for-9 from the field and ending the game scoreless.
Klay Thompson: A Cold Start to Life in Dallas
The Mavericks were hoping that Klay Thompson, armed with his four championship rings, would provide the final piece to their title puzzle. However, the sharpshooter’s preseason performances have not lived up to expectations. Against the Clippers, Thompson played 21 minutes but missed all nine of his shots, including six three-point attempts.
This marks a worrying trend for Dallas. After scoring 10 points in his preseason debut, Thompson’s shooting touch has disappeared, with his total from the past two games standing at 3-for-11 from beyond the arc. His plus-minus of -14 in this game was the second-worst on the team, adding to concerns about his form.
Clippers Take Control Without Kawhi Leonard
The Clippers were missing their franchise player, Kawhi Leonard, who sat courtside in street clothes, continuing his recovery from injury. But James Harden, in just his second preseason appearance, filled the void. Harden finished with 10 points and 12 assists, orchestrating the offense with a series of alley-oop dunks and flashy passes.
Kevin Porter Jr. provided a spark off the bench, leading all scorers with 18 points and adding 6 assists. The Clippers also dominated defensively, racking up 20 steals and forcing the Mavericks into 29 turnovers—a glaring issue Dallas will need to address before the regular season.
Mavericks Without Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving
The Mavericks were without their superstar duo, Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, which left Thompson with the responsibility of leading the offense. Unfortunately, his shooting woes left the Mavericks searching for answers.
Despite the absence of their main stars, the Mavericks expected more from Thompson, who was seen as the perfect complement to Doncic and Irving. Instead, the team finds itself wondering if Thompson’s shooting slump is just a preseason hiccup or a sign of deeper issues.
What’s Next for Dallas?
The Mavericks entered the preseason full of optimism, believing they had addressed their biggest weaknesses. But three consecutive losses and Thompson’s struggles have raised concerns. Head coach Jason Kidd will need to figure out how to integrate Thompson into the lineup effectively before the start of the season.
If Thompson can find his rhythm, the Mavericks still have a chance to contend. But with the season opener fast approaching, time is running out to get things right.
Key Performances
Los Angeles Clippers:
- James Harden: 10 points, 12 assists
- Kevin Porter Jr.: 18 points, 6 assists
- Kawhi Leonard: DNP (injury)
Dallas Mavericks:
- Klay Thompson: 0 points, 0-for-9 FG, 3 rebounds, 1 assist
- Maxi Kleber: 6 points, 4 rebounds
- Tim Hardaway Jr.: 8 points, 3 assists
FAQs
Thompson struggled with his shooting, going 0-for-9 from the field. It could be due to rust from limited preseason action or challenges in adjusting to a new system.
It’s too early to tell, but the Mavericks are hopeful that Thompson can rediscover his shooting touch as the season progresses.
Harden had a solid outing with 10 points and 12 assists, leading the Clippers to victory in Leonard’s absence.
The Mavericks will aim to snap their losing streak and build chemistry before the regular season tips off.
Conclusion
The Mavericks vs Clippers preseason clash served as a wake-up call for Dallas. While Klay Thompson’s scoreless performance was disappointing, it’s too early to hit the panic button. However, the Mavericks must quickly resolve their issues, especially with Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving expected to lead the charge in the regular season.
On the other hand, the Clippers look solid even without Kawhi Leonard, and James Harden seems comfortable leading the offense. As both teams gear up for the regular season, their contrasting preseason fortunes suggest that Dallas has more work to do if they hope to compete at the highest level.
