Shorthanded Mavericks Fall to Clippers, 118-95, Without Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving
The Dallas Mavericks struggled to keep pace with the Los Angeles Clippers on Thursday night, falling 118-95 as they played without star players Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving. Missing their two leading scorers due to injuries, the Mavericks relied on a collective effort that ultimately fell short against the Clippers’ balanced attack.
The Clippers dominated from the outset, with Paul George leading the charge with 28 points, 8 rebounds, and 6 assists. Kawhi Leonard added 22 points, showcasing his efficiency on both ends of the court. The Mavericks, however, struggled offensively, shooting just 39% from the field. Tim Hardaway Jr. stepped up for Dallas, scoring 24 points, but the team’s inability to generate consistent offense was evident throughout the game.
Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd acknowledged the impact of missing Dončić and Irving. “When you’re without your two primary playmakers, it’s always a challenge. But this was an opportunity for others to step up, and we’ll learn from it.”
The loss highlights the importance of Dončić and Irving to the Mavericks’ success as they navigate a competitive Western Conference. The team hopes to have its stars back soon to avoid slipping further in the standings.
