The Dallas Mavericks showcased their resilience and teamwork with a commanding 113-97 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers on Saturday night, overcoming the absence of their star player Luka Doncic for the second consecutive game.
Despite missing Doncic, who averages 28.9 points per game and is currently sidelined due to a left heel contusion, the Mavericks exhibited depth with eight players scoring in double figures. Quentin Grimes was the star of the night, contributing 20 points off the bench, including 14 scorching points during the decisive fourth quarter.
Grimes' late-game heroics included hitting three consecutive three-pointers and converting three free throws after being fouled beyond the arc—a performance pivotal to sealing the Mavericks' sixth win out of their last eight games without Doncic.
Other notable contributions came from Klay Thompson, who added 16 points on efficient shooting, and Kyrie Irving, who returned from injury to score 15 points and dish out six assists. Spencer Dinwiddie also chimed in with 15 points as the Mavericks demonstrated their offensive prowess even without their leading scorer.
Irving faced challenges early, struggling with his shooting but managed to rebound and assist significantly, showcasing his value on the court and guiding the team through turbulent moments.
On the other end for the Clippers, Norman Powell emerged as the leading scorer with 28 points, but he couldn't shift the momentum his team needed. Teammates James Harden and Kevin Porter Jr. chipped in with 19 points each, whilst Ivica Zubac recorded his 19th double-double of the season, finishing with 13 points and 15 rebounds.
The Mavericks’ victory also marked the end of the two-game series against the Clippers, illustrated their continual rise within the Western Conference standings. Coach Jason Kidd noted the impressive team performance, emphasizing how different players rose to the occasion.
Klay Thompson, whose defensive abilities have come under scrutiny, also put on a show with his season-high four steals—a reflection not only of his versatility but also of his gradual acclimatization to the Mavericks' system. Kidd defended Thompson, saying, “He just goes out there and plays the game the right way and does what it takes for his team to win.” This acknowledgment from Kidd mirrored the sentiments of Thompson's teammates, who rally behind him against critics.
Dereck Lively II, the Mavericks’ center, also shared insights on the criticism Thompson faced, highlighting how it often overshadows the contributions he makes every game. “But they’re not going to congratulate him for the 12 things he does right,” said Lively, showcasing the unity among the Mavericks players.
Grimes’ fourth-quarter scoring burst appeared to take center stage as he blew the game open. He scored 14 points within just over three minutes, culminating his night with solid stats, including shooting 7-for-8 overall and collaborating effectively with Lively and other teammates.
The Mavericks approached the game with urgency and cohesion, as witnessed by the balance of their scoring. They became the second team this season to record eight players with 10 or more points, demonstrating their depth and ability to share roles effectively on offense.
This win places the Mavericks at 18-10 for the season, ranking them fourth in the Western Conference as they prepare to face the Portland Trail Blazers next. The victory not only bolstered their playoff position but also reinforced their ability to compete, exemplifying the depth of their roster beyond the superstar presence of Doncic.
Overall, the Mavericks have illustrated their capability—through teamwork and resilience—providing fans and analysts alike with plenty to discuss as they push forward through the season. It will be interesting to see how they adapt should Doncic remain sidelined, but for now, they have proven they can contend with any team through strategic collaboration and standout performances from unexpected players.
