At the forepart of a back-to-back, both in Los Angeles against the same team, the LA Clippers jump ball with the Dallas Mavericks. Though injuries have significantly damaged them, the Mavericks are still a threat in the Western Conference and have a playoff spot to fight for.
The Clippers are on a mission to win out the rest of the way, and they are on pace after defeating the New Orleans Pelicans 114-98. These 48 minutes against New Orleans were pure perfection, from superstars to role players.
Kawhi Leonard kept up with his push of force and domination on offense and defense, breaking down the Pelicans with 28 points, three rebounds, three assists, and two steals. He shot 11-18 on field goals in 38 minutes. Leonard was also on cue from three, drilling three of five attempts.
Furthermore, Harden took 34 minutes to exceed a double-double of 21 points and 10 assists. The former MVP was great at anticipating shots, as he swatted three of the Clippers’ four total blocks.
Each time Harden racks up a high number of assists, star big man Ivica Zubac usually stuffs the shot charts with dunks, layups, and his signature hook shot. This is a great description of how the chart concluded, as Zubac posted 17 points and 10 rebounds on 6-8 shooting.
The x-factor, Bogdan Bogdanović, soared for 16 points in 26 minutes. This performance is among several personal bests since his recent trade to LA.
Conversely, the Dallas Mavericks may be limited in talent due to injury, but their starting five can still match up with winning opponents. They proved so at home against the Atlanta Hawks, where big man Anthony Davis documented 34 points, 15 rebounds, and five blocks.
Guys like Klay Thompson, Spencer Dinwiddie, and Jaden Hardy also contributed with exceptional efficiency.
Are Kawhi Leonard and Anthony Davis expected to play on April 5th, 2025?
Kawhi Leonard will play tonight against the Dallas Mavericks and probably sit tomorrow, while Anthony Davis is still questionable with a left abductor strain.
Full injury report for Dallas Mavericks’ third contest with the LA Clippers this season
Amir Coffey(left knee inflammation), Jordan Miller(left hamstring tendinopathy), and Ben Simmons(injury management) will be off-duty today for the LA Clippers.
Caleb Martin(right hip strain) is probable for the Dallas Mavericks. Kyrie Irving(knee surgery), Dante Exum(hand surgery), Kessler Edwards(two-way), Derrick Lively II(right ankle), Olivier-Maxence Prosper, and Brandon Williams(two-way) are out.