(4) Clippers vs. (5) Mavericks First Round Playoff Series Thread

[FultzNationRISE]

(4) LA Clippers vs. (5) Dallas

• Game 1: Clippers 109, Mavericks 97
• Game 2: Mavericks 96, Clippers 93
• Game 3: Mavericks 101, Clippers 90
• Game 4: Clippers 116, Mavericks 111
• Game 5: Mavericks 123, Clippers 93
• Game 6: Mavericks 114, Clippers 101

Dallas wins series 4-2

----------------------

Kawhi is apparently set to return for the series. Frankly I suspect his ‘inflamed knee’ was a ruse all along to load manage him for three weeks so he COULDNT get hurt before the playoffs.

Im really not sure how to evaluate this series in terms of predicting a winner. I think guys like PJ Washington and Exum can do a reasonable job covering Leonard. He’ll still score but I dont think it’ll get out of hand.

The center position is basically a wash. The Clippers have a bit better perimeter depth on paper but the Mavs may have better chemistry. Irving and Doncic are gonna do what they do. I guess it’s largely gonna come down to what Harden and Westbrook and George look like this series. If Dallas can somehow give them SOME kind of an off-kilter look, those are guys who will get confused and rattled and tilted easily. If you let them get into rhythm then theyll start to play downhill.

Dallas is up against a lot of talent on paper that has a lot of weakness psychologically. They need to figure out how to attack that weakness. Thats gonna be the key.

[Jasper]

will take luka all day ... every day.

specially against Harden playoff bum , 4th qtr ape man Kawhi and PG shooting jumpers.

[Duffy Pratt]

Mavs in six.

[NBAGOAT]

if healthy I'll take clips in 7. Luka or kyrie have to guard harden or george. The clippers will always have a good defender on luka or kyrie mavs cant. Luka and kyrie are playing like the best duo in league but clippers have a big 3 with better depth and kawhis a monster in the playoffs

[bladefd]

Will Kawhi be Kawhi? I don't remember the last game he played. I think that's the x-factor.

Clippers are definitely the better team in Kawhi/pg13/Harden all play at their capability.

[SATAN]

I would equally enjoy seeing Luka choke and get swept or completely dominating the Clippers tbh. I wanna see a Dallas vs Phoenix series though.

[kawhileonard2]

Kawhi is apparently set to return for the series. Frankly I suspect his ‘inflamed knee’ was a ruse all along to load manage him for three weeks so he COULDNT get hurt before the playoffs.

Im really not sure how to evaluate this series in terms of predicting a winner. I think guys like PJ Washington and Exum can do a reasonable job covering Leonard. He’ll still score but I dont think it’ll get out of hand.

The center position is basically a wash. The Clippers have a bit better perimeter depth on paper but the Mavs may have better chemistry. Irving and Doncic are gonna do what they do. I guess it’s largely gonna come down to what Harden and Westbrook and George look like this series. If Dallas can somehow give them SOME kind of an off-kilter look, those are guys who will get confused and rattled and tilted easily. If you let them get into rhythm then theyll start to play downhill.

Dallas is up against a lot of talent on paper that has a lot of weakness psychologically. They need to figure out how to attack that weakness. Thats gonna be the key.

We will beat these guys like usual.

[fsvr54]

Clippers are the better team and have the best player in the world.

[dankok8]

Is Kawhi even gonna play? If he does and he's healthy it could go either way. As is, give me Mavs in 6. Luka is the best player on the court and he has enough help to win against an injured Clippers team.

[ImKobe]

Mavs gotta win this man. I don't think any team is as motivated to beat the Clips as they are and Luka's at his apex right now. With how questionable Kawhi's health has been late in the season I'm not banking on him doing what he did vs the Mavs last time until I see him actually do it, and we know Playoff P and Harden are prone to choking in the POs so... should be a fun series but I'm taking the Mavs with how dominant they've been since the Gafford trade.

[Manny98]

Dallas in 5

[nayte]

I like both teams don't even know who I want to win. If clipps lose tho I expect some changes next year. If mavs lose they should run it back cause they are gonna win soon so have patience

[HylianNightmare]

I want both teams to win

[Akeem34TheDream]

Clippers in 6

[Proctor]

No Kawhi = Mavs in 5

[1987_Lakers]

Kawhi is apparently set to return for the series. Frankly I suspect his ‘inflamed knee’ was a ruse all along to load manage him for three weeks so he COULDNT get hurt before the playoffs.

I'm not so sure. Sources out there are saying Kawhi is still dealing with inflammation and he's listed as questionable for game 1.

Clippers have a history of downplaying Kawhi's injuries as well.

[tpols]

I dont think anybody has ever robbed the league more than kawhi. Hes a great player but he doesn't ****ing play. :lol

It's so dishonest how he strings teams along for money. He knows what he's doing. Give a few glimpses, get another bag, sit out. Rinse and repeat.

[tontoz]

I dont think anybody has ever robbed the league more than kawhi. Hes a great player but he doesn't ****ing play. :lol

It's so dishonest how he strings teams along for money. He knows what he's doing. Give a few glimpses, get another bag, sit out. Rinse and repeat.



Kawhi played 68 games this season. Kyrie hasnt played that many since since 2017.

[FultzNationRISE]

I'm not so sure. Sources out there are saying Kawhi is still dealing with inflammation and he's listed as questionable for game 1.

Clippers have a history of downplaying Kawhi's injuries as well.


Maybe so. If he does sit out then certainly Mavs become clear favorites.

I want the Mavs to win, but I'd rather see Leonard play and get whatever result happens. I dont see how any team continues to build around the guy if he misses yet another post season.

[hold this L]

If Kawhi isn't healthy the entire series and doesn't get re-injured, it's 50:50. Otherwise, Mavs in 6.

[tpols]

They snubbed Kyrie off the 2024 Olympic team this year so he won't be playing in the summer.

This is a guy who won an international MVP over prime Curry, AD, Rose, Harden, Klay, etc.

Clippers are about to be in trouble. :lol

[j3lademaster]

I dont think anybody has ever robbed the league more than kawhi. Hes a great player but he doesn't ****ing play. :lol

It's so dishonest how he strings teams along for money. He knows what he's doing. Give a few glimpses, get another bag, sit out. Rinse and repeat.He's the anti-Kobe

https://www.dailynews.com/2016/02/27/lakers-kobe-bryant-feels-fan-pressure-to-play-in-every-game/


“ ‘Coach, I got to play,’ ” Scott recalled Bryant saying. “ ‘People paid their money. I have to play.’ ”


“I always feel terrible when I can’t get out there and play. I feel disappointment for the fans when I can’t,” Bryant said. “If I feel like I can try and give it a go, I think the fans deserve that effort from me.”

Kawhi otoh will sit out for a crooked braid.

[Wally450]

Kawhi playing, Mavs in 6. Kawhi not playing, Mavs in 5.

[StrongLurk]

I actually think the Mavs should win this, especially if Luka wants people to think he is as good as he thinks he is.

[Charlie Sheen]

Call me a sucker, but I am buying in to Harden making the difference. He is going to take a lot of the pressure off powell, mann, westbrook etc when the team needs to find an easy bucket. I guess you could say the same thing about kyrie on the other side too.

[SaltyMeatballs]

This will be the best first round series.

I have Clippers in 7 but they can win in 5 or 6 if Harden doesn't shit the bed and if Kawhi plays.

Regardless, Luka will probably end up averaging 40/10/9.

[Street Hunger]

• Game 1: Mavericks vs. Clippers; Sunday, April 21 (3:30 ET, ABC)
• Game 2: Mavericks vs. Clippers; Tuesday, April 23 (10 ET, TNT)
• Game 3: Clippers vs. Mavericks; Friday, April 26 (8 ET, ESPN)
• Game 4: Clippers vs. Mavericks; Sunday, April 28 (3:30 ET, ABC)
• Game 5: Mavericks vs. Clippers; Wednesday, May 1 (TBD, TBD)*
• Game 6: Clippers vs. Mavericks; Friday, May 3 (TBD, TBD)*
• Game 7: Mavericks vs. Clippers; Sunday, May 5 (TBD, TBD)*

* = If necessary

[BarberSchool]

Mavericks in 5 (if Kawhi not 90%+ or 6 if Kawhi healthy)

[Axe]

Hope the mavs finally get the dub in this one. Ty lue is a fraud.

[ArbitraryWater]

Why do we continue with these soul-less series threads?

Emphasize the stage / occasion ffs.

Western Conference R1: ...


Thats a proper name

[Jasper]

mav's in 6

Harden redeems himself and puts up numbers of 18 5 9 avg per series//

[fsvr54]

Kawhi is fully healthy. You clowns think he is actually injured. Clippers plan working

[Im Still Ballin]

ISB's expert pick: 4-3 LAC if Kawhi plays; 4-1 DAL if he doesn't.

[tpols]

Interesting stat since Gafford was put in the starting line up on March 7th Dallas has had the #1 ranked defense in the NBA.

[FultzNationRISE]

Mavericks in… 7

[tontoz]

Mavs in 6. This is the strongest supporting cast Luka's had and they have been playing the best heading into the playoffs.

[Hey Yo]

Kawhi is fully healthy. You clowns think he is actually injured. Clippers plan working

Your boy Kawhit ruled out for today's game.

[BarberSchool]

Kawhi is fully healthy. You clowns think he is actually injured. Clippers plan workingMany reports were saying he wouldn’t play game 1… official status was GTD. Until 30 minutes ago where he was ruled out.

[Doomsday Dallas]

https://i0.wp.com/images2.imgbox.com/f1/f1/Vvy5u7Mx_o.gif


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lhqneRwaJ-g

https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_1080,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape%2Fcover%2Fsport%2F24d563136ed79641b9ab68a6a8 2a38f6788fc34d43d63b823c6f8756bfb59710.jpg

[Nowoco]

This is going to be first great, close, exciting game of the playoffs so far. Book it.

[Mask the Embiid]

Somehow I ended up on the ish of Japan. Too bad I don’t speak even 1 word of Japanese
https://i.postimg.cc/xCqmGdJp/IMG-1993.png :ohwell:

But anyhow for the first time ever I have bet on Luka in a playoff series. Let’s go mavs


I just can’t see a harden pg13 team winning

[Real Men Wear Green]

Wondering if there is any bad blood between Irving and Harden from the Nets fiasco. Wouldn't mind seeing some rivalry and without Leonard the Clippers must have an MVP performance from Harden. Not a believer in George but any time Doncic is on him they should test that out.

[90sgoat]

Honestly the Kawhi injury might be good for Clippers, because Zubac will get more touches and Zubac is much bigger than Gafford or any other Mavs starter. Lively might have to start.

[tpols]

Clippers came to play. They seemed to target gafford with zubac and it worked. They know he's the X factor.

[90sgoat]

Clippers came to play. They seemed to target gafford with zubac and it worked. They know he's the X factor.

Gafford didn't try to stop Zubac, but tried to draw fouls. That's not going to work. He needs to play hard and foul and Luka has to target Zubac on offense, get him off the floor.

I've always thought Zubac was underrated, he's one of the biggest and strongest in the league, like Steven Adams strong, but with an actual post game. He is just overshadowed by his teammates.

I wonder if everyone on Clips are ok with Zubac shining all series or if they will self sabotage.

[90sgoat]

Zubac looking like Shaq out there.

[tpols]

Mavs are taking some dumbass shots. Literally chucking crazy contested 3s.

[elementally morale]

Dallas is playing 'my turn your turn' basketball. Won't work.

[BarberSchool]

Clippers made some shots they will miss later.
Vice versa for Dallas.

The Zubac targeting Gafford repeatedly was likely something Dallas didn’t expect tho.

[FultzNationRISE]

Mavs are taking some dumbass shots. Literally chucking crazy contested 3s.

Gotta dance with the girl that got you here.

[BarberSchool]

Gafford didn't try to stop Zubac, but tried to draw fouls. That's not going to work. He needs to play hard and foul and Luka has to target Zubac on offense, get him off the floor.

I've always thought Zubac was underrated, he's one of the biggest and strongest in the league, like Steven Adams strong, but with an actual post game. He is just overshadowed by his teammates.

I wonder if everyone on Clips are ok with Zubac shining all series or if they will self sabotage.Zu has great hands, both left and right, good touch with both. Also a heavy base and size 20 feet, so he is extremely stable and you cannot move him.

Was a good move to dump it in and see what he could do against the smaller Gafford.

[Nowoco]

Kyrie has been a non-entity so far. Surprising with the way he was playing.

[Akeem34TheDream]

Clippers are a solid team without Kawhi. Not a contender but not a lottery team either like Heat without Butler.

[90sgoat]

Clips are just a much deeper team with their role players.

People thought Luka finally had a good team around him, but PJ Washington, Gafford, Hardaway, Exuum, DJJ, Kleber etc, they are not elite role players, they're bench guys on almost all playoff teams.

Mann, Harden, Westbrook, Zubac, Powell, Plumlee, those are just better role players.

And more than anything is that they're almost built to stop Luka. They're long and strong on almost all positions. Coffey, Mann, PG, Westbrook, they're not going to be bullied and that makes it much tougher for Luka to get easy buckets.

[Proctor]

Chef Harden is cooking....before the house goes up in smoke!

:roll:

[tpols]

Who would've thought James Harden would be the guy to bury Dallas? :lol

[Nowoco]

This gon be a long night for Dallas if Harden is shooting like this.

[dazzer87]

Harden….:pimp:

[BarberSchool]

Kyrie has been a non-entity so far. Surprising with the way he was playing.
Mann is putting a ton of energy into being a frustrating pest early on both Doncic and Irving. Dallas now has to run some sets that take advantage of his eagerness and smaller size. Likely the same sets they ran against Beidges in the Phoenix series.

[Proctor]

Let's not forget Harden's 45 point game in Boston game 1 last year before the disappearing act. :oldlol:

[90sgoat]

Mann is putting a ton of energy into being a frustrating pest early on both Doncic and Irving. Dallas now has to run some sets that take advantage of his eagerness and smaller size. Likely the same sets they ran against Beidges in the Phoenix series.

Yeah, Kidd is not a good coach and that might be a problem.

They need to have some strategies to get easier looks for Luka and Kyrie.

[90sgoat]

If Mavs lose to Clips this series, then Kidd can't be allowed to have a job the next day.

[tpols]

The worst shot you can take when you're in a slump is a 3 and the best shot you can take when you're on a roll is a 3. Don't understand how these dudes don't see that.

[BarberSchool]

Who would've thought James Harden would be the guy to bury Dallas? :lol
Lol

Law of averages will prevail.
Clips are feeling themselves.
Frontrunners love having a lead.
They don’t like close games.
Many of the clippers role players will shrink when it’s close later.

[FultzNationRISE]

Let's not forget Harden's 45 point game in Boston game 1 last year before the disappearing act. :oldlol:

This.

I dunno if Dallas will have enough in this matchup or not, but if the games or the series get tight… history says Harden’s sizzle will fizzle.

[Nowoco]

I know they're shooting the lights out which won't last but the Clips are looking way better than I was expecting.

Then again, Dallas are making their own murderer atm.

[90sgoat]

Mavs will adjust, they always look bad against physical teams that play well in a system.

They need to find some favorable matchups and exploit those.

[tpols]

I've never seen Kyrie and Luka be this ice cold. They can't even hit wide open 3s right now.

[RRR3]

Clippers are a solid team without Kawhi. Not a contender but not a lottery team either like Heat without Butler.
Kawhi has played on teams that would make or at minimum contend for the playoffs without him every year of his career lol. Idk if that’s ever happened before.

[BarberSchool]

Dallas making Westbrick aggressive and wanting the ball, will work against the Clippers, have seen Westbrick want the attention, and go on so many head down drives for turnovers, charges, and bad low% contested finishes, then you look up, and the score has fluctuated 8 points the other way.

Westbrick cannot overcome his own jealousy of a successful teammate. He will do something stupid to get attention, then take bad shots and turn the ball over by being overly senselessly aggressive.

That said; Dallas needs to stay calm and follow their game plan, the 3’s will begin to drop.

[Manny98]

What's this offense?

Need to get back to playing winning team basketball

[90sgoat]

What a wack call by the refs on the kickout 3 pointer from Harden

[BarberSchool]

Kids refusing to challenge that is gonna anger Luka a lot.

[FultzNationRISE]

Harden and Luka guarding each other


https://tnp.straitstimes.com/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/articles/2018/06/29/NP_20180629_WHALE29_4096404.jpg

[tpols]

Yo just sit this one out at this point lol.

Wouldn't even play the starters in the 2nd half.

[BarberSchool]

I’m sure everyone recalls in Philly, Harden having a great game 1, then disappearing.

[imdaman99]

Mavs have no answer for... Harden. And kyrie is a non factor

[90sgoat]

The difference between PG and Luka/Kyrie is that PG is still a factor when he doesn't score. He can let Harden cook and then just play defense.

[90sgoat]

Westbrook can still get up!

[fsvr54]

Harden chucking now

[90sgoat]

We haven't seen Luka post up at all this game.

I think that's their best shot. Kyrie too. Target Harden in the postup.

[imdaman99]

Lol expecting a few paragraphs of why this is bad for the clippers because Westbrook will take more shots now
:yaohappy:

[Akeem34TheDream]

Lol expecting a few paragraphs of why this is bad for the clippers because Westbrook will take more shots now
:yaohappy:

I will NEVER forget Lebron stans acting like Russ was the worst basketball player of all time. That was the last straw for me, after that i decided to just not argue with some people.

[imdaman99]

I will NEVER forget Lebron stans acting like Russ was the worst basketball player of all time. That was the last straw for me, after that i decided to just not argue with some people.

He wasn't the worst but he wasn't good. It was just a bad fit. DRuss is better for that team because at least he can shoot. And you know they don't like him either :lol

[FultzNationRISE]

Russ was the worst basketball player of all time with the Lakers.

[ImKobe]

2/18 from 3 is wild, 9/41 FG & 30 pts in a half is even wilder

Clips really gonna steal one off a bad 3PT shooting night and have Kawhi back, Mavs are cursed vs this team lol.

[ImKobe]

Russ was the worst basketball player of all time with the Lakers.

He needed to get away from Bran and have some shooters around him. Give him the spacing and he's still an effective player.

[imdaman99]

If mavs don't get it close, they should rest up and I got them winning game 2. This series will be up and down

[90sgoat]

2/18 from 3 is wild, 9/41 FG & 30 pts in a half is even wilder

Clips really gonna steal one off a bad 3PT shooting night and have Kawhi back, Mavs are cursed vs this team lol.

Mavs are not really cursed.

They're cursed by the attitude of their star, which has permeated through the organisation over several years.

Mavs have always been soft and unwilling to play hardnosed defense. People have blamed Carlisle, Dwight Powell, Porzingis, but ultimately, now 6 years in, you have to point the blame at Luka and Cuban.

Mavs need someone like Terrence Mann, Coffey, Zubac.

[FultzNationRISE]

He needed to get away from Bran and have some shooters around him. Give him the spacing and he's still an effective player.

Lebron is literally one of the best shooters in the league at this stage :lol

Westbrook was a turnover machine with a penchant for shooting 3/13 or thereabouts.

He was ASS, and it was his own fault, NOT LeFlawless’s.

[FultzNationRISE]

If mavs don't get it close, they should rest up and I got them winning game 2. This series will be up and down

I dunno about game 2.

The Mavs are a three point shooting, momentum team. The home crowd makes a big difference for them. They should win some games in Dallas, but theyll need to get one in LAC and so far it looks like that may be tricky…

[90sgoat]

Why do NBA refs feel they need to reward Harden flopping at this point in his career?

[ArbitraryWater]

I told yall the Mavs were stupid for not dropping down to 6th

[90sgoat]

I told yall the Mavs were stupid for not dropping down to 6th

Yep.

Clips are Mavs kryptonite. They couldn't be built worse for Mavs.

[Nowoco]

Luka really is heavy as shit. He must have gained 30 lbs since the first RS game.

[ImKobe]

Lebron is literally one of the best shooters in the league at this stage :lol

Westbrook was a turnover machine with a penchant for shooting 3/13 or thereabouts.

He was ASS, and it was his own fault, NOT LeFlawless’s.

Lakers have been like bottom 5 in 3PT shooting damn near every year under Bran. A fluke run in 2020 where teams were injured in a bubble setting had you guys fooled. This team has either missed the POs or been a 7 seed 5 out of 6 seasons under Bran.

There's no Westbrick now and they still suck at shooting 3s. At some point we have to point the finger at Lebron. You guys tell us he's the coach, the GM and the best player on the team, so the blame falls on him.

[Manny98]

Ree willing them back into it

[tpols]

I told yall the Mavs were stupid for not dropping down to 6th

If the Kawhi less clippers could hold Dallas to 30 points in the first half I'd shudder at what the twolves could hold them to.

Dallas seemed to think it would be easy with kawhi out and LA came out with chips on their shoulders.

[Nowoco]

The Clips have cooled right down.

Edit - It didnt last long.

[fsvr54]

The Clips have cooled right down.

It didnt last long.

They're up 26 points....

[FultzNationRISE]

Doncic just been butt cheeks out there tonight

[Nowoco]

They're up 26 points....

I edited my post with the second line. The Mavs cut it to under 20 when I said the first sentence. Then made 3 quick buckets.

[90sgoat]

Josh Green was ready to play?

Why wasn't he playing.

[90sgoat]

I think Mavs need to start Lively this series, he's just a much better defender in space than Gafford, also much more mobile on offense.

[Nowoco]

I think Mavs need to start Lively this series, he's just a much better defender in space than Gafford, also much more mobile on offense.

Worst +/- on the floor though.

[Manny98]

Luka shaking off the rust

[90sgoat]

Worst +/- on the floor though.

Don't think +- makes sense in single games.

[Nowoco]

It's no good the Mavs dropping shots if they cant get a stop. This game is over. Signs of life at least.

[90sgoat]

It's no good the Mavs dropping shots if they cant get a stop. This game is over. Signs of life at least.

I'd not play Hardaway at all this series, he looks really bad on both ends. Kleber also looks like trash honestly.

Lively will have to play a lot more minutes and Josh Green needs to play if he's ready and not injured.

[SouBeachTalents]

These reviews are just brutal, it should not take this long to reach a decision.

[90sgoat]

If PJ Washington could become a consistent 3-point shooter then he would be really good. He's very versatile, but just isn't consistent enough on catch and shoot.

[FKAri]

2/18 from 3 is wild, 9/41 FG & 30 pts in a half is even wilder

Clips really gonna steal one off a bad 3PT shooting night and have Kawhi back, Mavs are cursed vs this team lol.

It's crazy how simple modern NBA basketball really is. The disparity in wide open 3s decides a ton of games. In the post game the talking heads will make up all kinds of narrative about who wanted it more and who came out with purpose and other BS.

[tpols]

It's crazy how simple modern NBA basketball really is. The disparity in wide open 3s decides a ton of games. In the post game the talking heads will make up all kinds of narrative about who wanted it more and who came out with purpose and other BS.

Clippers came out to take gafford out the game and it worked. The blowout was built on the back of zubac and then Harden banging 3 after 3. Clippers still have a ton of talent... they don't look like Miami without Butler or the magic.

[hold this L]

2/18 from 3 is wild, 9/41 FG & 30 pts in a half is even wilder

Clips really gonna steal one off a bad 3PT shooting night and have Kawhi back, Mavs are cursed vs this team lol.

Is he even confirmed to be back in game 2?

[BarberSchool]

Luka really is heavy as shit. He must have gained 30 lbs since the first RS game.
Luka was 230 as a rookie. Ever since the bubble season, he had fluctuated from as low as 242, to as high as in the 260’s. He’s around 252-255 right now. He is also a heavy drinker, that’s why his face is puffy. If he wants to be a multiple time MVP & multiple time champion, he will need to give up alcohol, or cut back drastically.

[BarberSchool]

I'd not play Hardaway at all this series, he looks really bad on both ends. Kleber also looks like trash honestly.

Lively will have to play a lot more minutes and Josh Green needs to play if he's ready and not injured.Josh Green is the perfect type of player to be another body guarding harden, and getting easy buckets on run-outs. Not sure how far back he is, but more minutes from him would help a lot.

[FKAri]

Clippers came out to take gafford out the game and it worked. The blowout was built on the back of zubac and then Harden banging 3 after 3. Clippers still have a ton of talent... they don't look like Miami without Butler or the magic.

Gafford getting outplayed by Zubac got it started but that was just the first domino.

[SATAN]

This L is on the ball hog...

[bladefd]

I will NEVER forget Lebron stans acting like Russ was the worst basketball player of all time. That was the last straw for me, after that i decided to just not argue with some people.

He was making what? $47mill/yr? Absolutely the worst player in NBA history for that money. It's between him and John Wall.

For veterans minimum, he is decent off the bench playing 20mpg. Very different situation from Lakers

[GimmeThat]

it's as if this was Jason Kidd's vendetta game against Byron Scott. He only lets his PG set screen for one another and expects the rest of the team to just run up and down the floor and find success on their own.

[ArbitraryWater]

I will NEVER forget Lebron stans acting like Russ was the worst basketball player of all time. That was the last straw for me, after that i decided to just not argue with some people.


lmao wtf?

Russ SUCKED

[dankok8]

Don't think Dallas shoots that poorly again. Clippers made 8 more threes and won by 12 points. That bodes well for Dallas IMO.

[BarberSchool]

Don't think Dallas shoots that poorly again. Clippers made 8 more threes and won by 12 points. That bodes well for Dallas IMO.Dallas scored 8pts in a second quarter …. That’s either incredible defense or poor shooting or both. I almost want to rewatch that second quarter to really see the lineups and minutes and get a complete sense of how such an outlier happened.

Also, clippers are used to playing a lot of early games, and when you couple time zone difference, it was like Dallas was playing a noon game pretty much. So there’s that.

[Jasper]

people as well as I am in admiration of Luka's prowls

How come in the first game of the LA series ... he let his team lose ???????

This is a super star against PG 13 old bones , ,, and Harden typical choker.

or do we blame dick Kidd ???

[Jasper]

Dallas scored 8pts in a second quarter …. That’s either incredible defense or poor shooting or both. I almost want to rewatch that second quarter to really see the lineups and minutes and get a complete sense of how such an outlier happened.

Also, clippers are used to playing a lot of early games, and when you couple time zone difference, it was like Dallas was playing a noon game pretty much. So there’s that.

dude these guys are pro's , not sand lot league

[BarberSchool]

dude these guys are pro's , not sand lot league

Old man,

Did you play college ball, or at least high school varsity ?

[Jasper]

Old man,

Did you play college ball, or at least high school varsity ?

high school and league ...besides playground... where guns were drawn.

[BarberSchool]

^Did you ever notice a difference, when playing a game mad early, versus playing after 6pm ?

[FultzNationRISE]

Don't think Dallas shoots that poorly again. Clippers made 8 more threes and won by 12 points. That bodes well for Dallas IMO.

Luka suffers the same problem as Embiid. They get too high and too low. When a couple shots dont fall their body language is shit. They pout. They lose intensity.

This has an intangible effect on the game. Even when these guys start making shots later in the game, it can sometimes be too late then. And if they'd have channeled their frustration into making an impact elsewhere the game might have been kept closer by the time they're in rhythm again. Instead they hang their head.

Luka's gonna slump again at some point. And if he doesnt start showing more resilience and leadership they could very well get bounced by LAC. Same exact thing happening with Embiid over in Philly.

That's the difference between these guys, and LeJokic. The mental game.

[BarberSchool]

Luka def has to grow up and quit drinking. He’s a bloated face baby, with the best offensive skillset in the league; but he can’t just coast by on talent if he wants multiple chips and multiple MVP’s. He’s going to have to push himself to be his actual best.

[SouBeachTalents]

Ugly start to this game so far.

[ArbitraryWater]

I genuinely despise Kleber. Dude is not made for these games.

[FultzNationRISE]

I genuinely despise Kleber. Dude is not made for these games.

He’s a good defender tbh, when he’s shooting well enough to justify being out there they get a boost from him as a quality two way guy. But hes gotta have that shooting consistency.

[ArbitraryWater]

He’s a good defender tbh, when he’s shooting well enough to justify being out there they get a boost from him as a quality two way guy. But hes gotta have that shooting consistency.

Is he? I just smell a brick every time he gets a good look.

[ArbitraryWater]

Lively and Washington at the line embarrassing

[BarberSchool]

Is he? I just smell a brick every time he gets a good look.
My memory says that in years past he was a mid to high 35-38% 3pt shooter.

Certainly hasn’t shot it well lately.

[BarberSchool]

Somewhere in the DFW area RN, there is a rangers/cowboys fan, who doesn’t watch the NBA, that is sure Paul George is a dirty player, purposely trying to injure Mavericks.

[tpols]

Luka is playing like a retard rn

[FultzNationRISE]

Luka is playing like a retard rn


He’s got that Kobe syndrome, honestly.

If HIS shot isnt going down, if HE’s not the one wowing the crowd, he just doesnt wanna play.

Jokic needs to have a talk with him this offseason.

[FultzNationRISE]

Neither team playin like contenders tonight.

Dallas winning right now just by virtue of being “less bad.”

[tpols]

The Clippers strategy of blitzing Luka and Kyrie and making the other guys beat them is working to perfection. The role players are bricking wide open looks. They're shook.

[FultzNationRISE]

The Clippers strategy of blitzing Luka and Kyrie and making the other guys beat them is working to perfection. The role players are bricking wide open looks. They're shook.

Yeah.

The Mavs are kinda damned either way. If Luka tries to do it all himself it’s not gonna be enough. But if he gives the ball up the Mavs just dont have guys that can score.

Im mainly disappointed in his body language and leadership when things arent going his way. But I cant really blame him for chucking. Besides Kyrie nobody else can score the ball.

[fsvr54]

Anyone who likes Luka over Kawhi is a crack-smoker.

[Im Still Ballin]

Mavericks pulling away.

[FultzNationRISE]

Grant Hill said it before I could but Luka has been excellent defensively tonight. Gotta give him credit for that.

[BarberSchool]

Luka just yelled Rasheed’s famous “THE BALL DONT LIE !” As walking in front of Kawhi after that missed free throw on that bullsh!t call lol

Most of the time, his sh!tying on refs is childish and harms the vibe.

But That sh!t was golden.

[fsvr54]

PG is a ****in idiot. You get the ball loose, you have to get that steal

[SATAN]

Luka is ****ing annoying. So cringe. Also, Zubak was clearly fouled. Could hear it a mile away.

[BarberSchool]

Luka is ****ing annoying. So cringe. Also, Zubak was clearly fouled. Could hear it a mile away.
Nicca, your username on a basketball message board is SATAN.
Who TF are you to talk about CRINGE?
GTFOH LMMFAO
Ole 7yr old tarantula pet having ass nicca.
STFU

[SATAN]

Nicca, your username on a basketball message board is SATAN.
Who TF are you to talk about CRINGE?
GTFOH LMMFAO
Ole 7yr old tarantula pet having ass nicca.
STFU

Wow what a cringe worthy comment. :facepalm

[fsvr54]

Let's get a Knicks ending for the Clips here

[SATAN]

Go Harden!

[SouBeachTalents]

That was a dumb foul by Kyrie :lol

[BarberSchool]

This is why LA can never claim to be a sports city.
Clippers just got a 3-point play with 20 sec to go, ft cuts it to 2pts, and not one fan in that b!tch is saying sh!t.

Silence.

B!tches. All of em.

[fsvr54]

Refs don't want Clippers to win

[ImKobe]

Refs don't want Clippers to win

Nah Clippers did it to themselves. They're lucky not to be down 0 - 2 right now the Mavs gifted them G1 with their horrible 1st half shooting.

[fsvr54]

Nah Clippers did it to themselves. They're lucky not to be down 0 - 2 right now the Mavs gifted them G1 with their horrible 1st half shooting.

You are a Lebron fan. Don't try to act like you have functioning brain cells.

[SATAN]

You are a Lebron fan. Don't try to act like you have functioning brain cells.

lol He hates LeBron and the Lakers.

[FultzNationRISE]

The biggest thing that happened for the Mavs tonight is that Harden and Westbrook got baited into playing a Big Balls contest with Luka, which they were never gonna win.

Every time Luka drilled a stone cold step back, Harden came down and tried to return serve and clanged it. Westbrook was his typical emotional over animated self around Luka, who he probably has a secret crush on, and was way too out of control.

It wasnt great from either team, but the Clippers iso players trying to play Luka’s game is not a good win condition for LA and they still took the bait.

[ImKobe]

You are a Lebron fan. Don't try to act like you have functioning brain cells.

I'm one of the few Lebron fans who will criticize him on this board. That alone should tell you I have at least a couple brain cells that work.

Mavs got some lucky bounces in the last minute but Clippers also got away with fouling in this game, overall Mavs are just the better team if Kawhi's not healthy. Their last 20 games or whatever after the Gafford trade were not a fluke.

It's gonna be hard to beat prime/peak Luka and a healthy Kyrie with good role players around them.

[FultzNationRISE]

I'm one of the few Lebron fans who will criticize him on this board. That alone should tell you I have at least a couple brain cells that work.

Mavs got some lucky bounces in the last minute but Clippers also got away with fouling in this game, overall Mavs are just the better team if Kawhi's not healthy. Their last 20 games or whatever after the Gafford trade were not a fluke.

It's gonna be hard to beat prime/peak Luka and a healthy Kyrie with good role players around them.

Not sure Id even call these “good” role players. It’s almost as generic a supporting cast as youll find tbh.

Only Lebron’s is worse.

[ImKobe]

Not sure Id even call these “good” role players. It’s almost as generic a supporting cast as youll find tbh.

Only Lebron’s is worse.

Nah they're legit good. #1 defense in the league in their last 20 games. 23 - 9 in their last 32 and that's with them throwing the last 2 with the 5th seed secured.

[ArbitraryWater]

Anyone who likes Luka over Kawhi is a crack-smoker.


...
This forum has too many retards lol

[ArbitraryWater]

Nah they're legit good. #1 defense in the league in their last 20 games. 23 - 9 in their last 32 and that's with them throwing the last 2 with the 5th seed secured.

Thats because of Luka and Kyrie. You could see similar trends at other points of the season.

They defend well but theyre very unreliable offensively.

When they were down 67-73 before making their run, they looked shook and useless on offense. Missed so many bunnies.

[Doomsday Dallas]

https://i0.wp.com/images2.imgbox.com/f1/f1/Vvy5u7Mx_o.gif


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y7N3xPqQhKU

https://d3vsguwj4bxh9r.cloudfront.net/uploads/auction/item/image/174070/AA_Center.png

[Jasper]

Harden playing his best bball playoffs in his life !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Last night thou - 2 for 10 on the 3pt line

[tpols]

Harden playing his best bball playoffs in his life !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Last night thou - 2 for 10 on the 3pt line

Kyrie seemed to take game 1 personal. He was all up in Hardens grill all night.

[Proctor]

Nicca, your username on a basketball message board is SATAN.
Who TF are you to talk about CRINGE?
GTFOH LMMFAO
Ole 7yr old tarantula pet having ass nicca.
STFU
:roll:

[FKAri]

Just noticed Chris Paul was courtside at the game.

[FultzNationRISE]

Dangerous spot for the Clips here. Mavs always get a big boost from their home crowd, and the Clipper stars are not exactly known for their perseverance. If Mavs take care of business at home, LAC aint coming back from 3-1. LeResilience aint walkin thru that door.

[ArbitraryWater]

The biggest thing that happened for the Mavs tonight is that Harden and Westbrook got baited into playing a Big Balls contest with Luka, which they were never gonna win.

Every time Luka drilled a stone cold step back, Harden came down and tried to return serve and clanged it. Westbrook was his typical emotional over animated self around Luka, who he probably has a secret crush on, and was way too out of control.

It wasnt great from either team, but the Clippers iso players trying to play Luka’s game is not a good win condition for LA and they still took the bait.


Very true

[Hey Yo]

Probably the best defensive game from start to finish I've seen Luka play.

[GimmeThat]

Luka has never won a playoff series averaging more than 24.3 FGA a game.

[90sgoat]

Kawhi back in the series.

[SATAN]

Luka losing the ball then screaming at the refs as usual. Give the guy a tech ffs. Was ridiculous last game.

[red1]

luka comes back in the game and is already whining and screaming at refs less than 5 seconds in :oldlol:

[90sgoat]

I think Harden this series has finally proven to me that he's actually a star. He has that Luka feeling, you know what he's going to do but he still does it, keeps hitting the stepback or the drive, for how many seasons.

[red1]

there's something about the way he flails his arms that is very baby-like :oldlol:

[90sgoat]

Got to be a flagrant 1

[Kblaze8855]

Watching Harden And Luka guard each other for a series would be equal parts exciting and infuriating. They are both such whiny bitches sometimes and would go back and forth complaining about the same thing to refs you know would wanna eject them both.

[Kblaze8855]

That wasn’t dirty. He was just trying to block the shot. I’m sure they’re gonna give him a flagrant anyway.

[FultzNationRISE]

Mavs need to pray they dont throw Westbrook out. Hes one of their most important assets.

[90sgoat]

Watching Harden And Luka guard each other for a series would be equal parts exciting and infuriating. They are both such whiny bitches sometimes and would go back and forth complaining about the same thing to refs you know would wanna eject them both.

Reminds me of two low level league teams, where both teams have some guy who used to be the guy back in the day and they're both used to getting hyped by their teammates.

[90sgoat]

That wasn’t dirty. He was just trying to block the shot. I’m sure they’re gonna give him a flagrant anyway.

Reckless though.

[SATAN]

I think Harden this series has finally proven to me that he's actually a star. He has that Luka feeling, you know what he's going to do but he still does it, keeps hitting the stepback or the drive, for how many seasons.

:facepalm

[90sgoat]

:facepalm

It's different to have a player as your opponent than watch them in a neutral game.

[ArbitraryWater]

Clips are turnstiles on defense


That Harden non-contest at the rim was hilarious

[ArbitraryWater]

That wasn’t dirty. He was just trying to block the shot. I’m sure they’re gonna give him a flagrant anyway.

Of course, he swatted him in the head lol

[SATAN]

It's different to have a player as your opponent than watch them in a neutral game.

He won an MVP and averaged like 37ppg while you weren't watching basketball. Luka literally uses prime Harden's signature moves. The star comment was weird.

[SATAN]

Westbrook trying to get under his skin in the dumbest way possible :oldlol:

[Kblaze8855]

Reckless though.

at best, it should be the original kind of flagrant which came with the extra free throws and the ball, but was not an automatic tech so you didn’t necessarily get ejected for two of them.

[90sgoat]

He won an MVP and averaged like 37ppg while you weren't watching basketball. Luka literally uses prime Harden's signature moves. The star comment was weird.

Of course he is a star, I'm not blind, but he also manipulated the softest era ever, so seeing him do it with this kind of tough defense and physicality proves him.

[ArbitraryWater]

Russ absolutely hates Lukas guts lmao

[90sgoat]

at best, it should be the original kind of flagrant which came with the extra free throws and the ball, but was not an automatic tech so you didn’t necessarily get ejected for two of them.

Sure.

[90sgoat]

Luka shouted something at Russ before the last hit.

[BarberSchool]

Luka doing his best Embiid bullsh!t.
I wonder how many dumb fouls Dallas is gonna bait Westbrick into, powered by jealousy lol

[90sgoat]

Why is Lively so good at lobs?

He must be a leader in that stat.

[BarberSchool]

Russ absolutely hates Lukas guts lmao

Russell been trying to injure him since his rookie year.
He knows Luka, Shai and Jokic gonna shatter all his statistical legacy.

[BarberSchool]

Why is Lively so good at lobs?

He must be a leader in that stat.

7’1”, great standing reach, low body weight.

[ArbitraryWater]

This is so beautiful to watch

[L.Kizzle]

Kiwi Leonard is done.

[ArbitraryWater]

Amazing how bad Westbrook is.

Clippers didnt learn their lesson


lol at that Hakeem poster saying something like he will never forget lebron stans acting like Westbrook sucked..

uh yea

[BarberSchool]

Kiwi Leonard is done.

Uncle Dennis robbed his own nephew of his prime, now he is out of his prime, on the downslope, realizing his legacy will never be as great as it could have been. Kawhi for a good 5 years, was easily the greatest two player on earth and no one else was close.

[90sgoat]

7’1”, great standing reach, low body weight.

He's got a great feel for space too, just slips away from his man often and is "suddenly" wide open under the rim.

He is very long though.

[90sgoat]

Uncle Dennis robbed his own nephew of his prime, now he is out of his prime, on the downslope, realizing his legacy will never be as great as it could have been. Kawhi for a good 5 years, was easily the greatest two player on earth and no one else was close.

I think Kawhi got his legacy with the Toronto ring, that's one of the most impressive rings of all time. First year ring on a perennial choker. Should have stayed for a repeat tho.

[BarberSchool]

Amazing how bad Westbrook is.

Clippers didnt learn their lesson


lol at that Hakeem poster saying something like he will never forget lebron stans acting like Westbrook sucked..
Fultz is right about Westbrick being a weapon Dallas can utilize to gain serious advantage.
Westbrick’s emotional maturity never got past grade school.

given his very small, overly compact curled ears … I suspect his dorso-lateral prefrontal cortex never fully developed due to prenatal cocaine exposure.

As well as likely carrying the gene that is deficient in Monoamine Oxidase A. That gene makes people irrationally, childishly irritable and reactively violent or aspiring to violence over NOTHING, and they cannot calm down or chill out, they stay irritated for hours. Similar to boogie, and many others.

Opps can push his buttons as easy as a child, and there is nothing Westbrick can do to control his emotions jerking him around like a puppeteer.

[90sgoat]

^ Jesus :roll:

Imagine this kind of analysis on ESPN.

[ArbitraryWater]

Fultz is right about Westbrick being a weapon Dallas can utilize to gain serious advantage.
Westbrick’s emotional maturity never got past grade school.

given his very small, overly compact curled ears … I suspect his dorso-lateral prefrontal cortex never fully developed due to prenatal cocaine exposure.

As well as likely carrying the gene that is deficient in Monoamine Oxidase A. That gene makes people irrationally, childishly irritable and reactively violent or aspiring to violence over NOTHING, and they cannot calm down or chill out, they stay irritated for hours. Similar to boogie, and many others.

Opps can push his buttons as easy as a child, and there is nothing Westbrick can do to control his emotions jerking him around like a puppeteer.

:oldlol:

Amazing

[90sgoat]

Now we just need Kyrie to step up in the 3rd and keep it going and let Luka rest for the 4th.

[ArbitraryWater]

Clips bench looks resigned

[BarberSchool]

^ Jesus :roll:

Imagine this kind of analysis on ESPN.
The depth to which I can pull a MF’s card are unimaginable to most :pimp:
And they can’t take issue with it, cause I’m bigger and more terrifyingly violent than they could ever be lol

[SouBeachTalents]

Horseshit call on Kyrie, and that's a clean block.

[ArbitraryWater]

cleanest block ever called a foul lol

[FultzNationRISE]

Kiwi Leonard is done.


Dude lookin like a SCRUB out there.


Get that man another 300 million dollar contract.

[BarberSchool]

:oldlol:

Amazing
Most only identify physical deficiencies in size, wingspan, speed, lateral movement, inability to his 3’s or FT.

But there are so many intangible weaknesses that are incredibly exploitable.

[90sgoat]

Got to say Mavs made some solid moves with Gafford, PJ Washington.

[SATAN]

This game sucks.

[SouBeachTalents]

Signs of life from Kawhi.

[90sgoat]

Kyrie with 4 fouls is not ideal, but neither is PG with 4.

[BarberSchool]

This game sucks.

Go feed your Tarantula, f@ggot.

[tpols]

Horseshit call on Kyrie, and that's a clean block.

Hardens out here doing jui-jitsu again. :facepalm

[ArbitraryWater]

lmao at Kawhi hanging there

[FultzNationRISE]

Doncic gettin a lil too casual out there.

It’s not an insurmountable lead. He needs stay locked in.

[SATAN]

Go feed your Tarantula, f@ggot.

This idiot has been salty ever since I laughed at someone correct him. Get over yourself.

[ArbitraryWater]

Most only identify physical deficiencies in size, wingspan, speed, lateral movement, inability to his 3’s or FT.

But there are so many intangible weaknesses that are incredibly exploitable.

Man I believe you. Just dont have that knowledge about the cortex n shit :lol

[BarberSchool]

Man I believe you. Just dont have that knowledge about the cortex n shit :lol
All easily available to learn about via PubMed/etc

I date almost exclusively multiracial girls, most specifically blue eyed yellowbones. Including many which were wasted time, in my younger days before learning all the physical signs of prenatal cocaine/alcohol abuse, and other genetic deficiencies per racial group. Dating tons of RN’s and several MD’s allowed me to learn quite a lot to avoid, and have ever since.

I’m about 98% certain Westbrick is a stereotypical “‘88 baby” who had hypertonia as a child, as well as the other two aforementioned exploitable deficiencies.

[ArbitraryWater]

funny Game rn


luka playing shit and Clips cant hit anything

[ArbitraryWater]

lead has trimmed and luka is still taking weird 30 footers

[90sgoat]

Kyrie need to step up.

[SouBeachTalents]

Westbrick just unplayable this game, straight garbage.

[ArbitraryWater]

I love Russ

[BarberSchool]

Other than Lobs…

Gafford one dribble spin moves off the short roll are literally my favorite Mavs plays of them all :rockon:

Now if Chandler and Lively and Gafford can all work together, to get Livley comfy and smart with those same short roll spin moves :pimp:

[90sgoat]

Kyrie on que.

[BarberSchool]

Kyrie on que.
Son is the #1 most dependable, adaptable, clutch bucket getter under 6’5” in 2024.

[tpols]

Fultz is right about Westbrick being a weapon Dallas can utilize to gain serious advantage.
WestbrickÂ’s emotional maturity never got past grade school.

given his very small, overly compact curled ears Â… I suspect his dorso-lateral prefrontal cortex never fully developed due to prenatal cocaine exposure.

As well as likely carrying the gene that is deficient in Monoamine Oxidase A. That gene makes people irrationally, childishly irritable and reactively violent or aspiring to violence over NOTHING, and they cannot calm down or chill out, they stay irritated for hours. Similar to boogie, and many others.

Opps can push his buttons as easy as a child, and there is nothing Westbrick can do to control his emotions jerking him around like a puppeteer.

That's an extremely polite way of saying he's a crack baby. :lol

[ArbitraryWater]

How is Kawhi out there dunking but not being healthy enough to play more minutes?

[SATAN]

Go Harden!

[90sgoat]

How is Kawhi out there dunking but not being healthy enough to play more minutes?

Dunking and hanging on the ring for a minute to avoid landing bad.

[Proctor]

Damn Gafford

[BarberSchool]

That's an extremely polite way of saying he's a crack baby. :lol

The detail is there to educate and pass knowledge to the readers.:cheers:

Also there is a wide range of severity to babies born to mothers who used amphetamines, cocaine, and other stimulants. Very small curled ears is one of the huge/visible warning signs.

[90sgoat]

Damn Gafford

Old school series.

[SATAN]

lol it's the playoffs but you can't breath on Dallas.

[BarberSchool]

Westbrick just unplayable this game, straight garbage.

Norman Powell is many times greater value in every aspect besides offensive rebounding and crowd involvement/energy.

[Proctor]

9 times out of 10, Harden shits the bed so bad his team loses
1 time out of 10, he plays well and his team shits the bed and his team loses

The one common denominator...Harden never wins

:D

[ArbitraryWater]

Kawhi is so done with everything :lol


dude is out

[tpols]

lol it's the playoffs but you can't breath on Dallas.

With the FTs clippers got for Harden and Powell flop 3s you can't complain.

[BarberSchool]

lol it's the playoffs but you can't breathe on Dallas.
Quit whining about your imaginary injustices, f@ggot.
Westbrick can get ALL ULNA, and get credited with a clean block:

https://youtu.be/KAaLG2lkMIM?feature=shared

[SATAN]

Luka is running out of time to pad his stats.

[90sgoat]

There goes the crack baby!

[Proctor]

Westbrook :roll:

When he's great, he's amazing...when he's bad, he's the worst in the league