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The Dallas Mavericks and LA Clippers reignite their rivalry in Sunday's 2024 NBA Playoffs first-round Game 1 contest at Crypto.com Arena. The familiar foes square off for the third time since 2020 in the opening round of the playoffs. The Clippers have been the dominant team, with wins in both series.
However, the scales are slightly tipped in the Mavericks' favor. The Clippers were one of the hottest teams in the NBA for the better part of the year, but a shaky run post the 2024 All-Star break raised doubts about their ceiling.
Meanwhile, the Mavericks underwent an opposite trajectory this year as they significantly improved while the Clippers struggled. Dallas has a much better roster than its previous two postseason matchups, so it will be keen on avenging those losses.
Dallas Mavericks vs. LA Clippers Injury Reports for Game 1 (Apr. 21)
Dallas Mavericks injury report
Dallas begins its 2024 NBA playoffs relatively injury-free, as only one player is on their injury report for Sunday's clash. Tim Hardaway Jr. is questionable with an illness.
LA Clippers injury report
The Clippers begin their 2024 NBA playoffs with one injury but a key one as it's Kawhi Leonard. The two-time finals MVP is questionable with a right knee inflammation. Leonard will be a game-time decision.
Dallas Mavericks vs. LA Clippers last game
The Dallas Mavericks and the LA Clippers faced off thrice this season. Their last meeting on Dec. 20, 2023, ended with the Clippers securing a 120-111 win to claim the season series 2-1. Kawhi Leonard was the key architect of the win, with 30 points, 10 rebounds and five assists on 12 of 22 shooting.
Meanwhile, James Harden had 17 points and 11 assists, and Normal Powell contributed 21 points off the bench on 7 of 10 shooting, compensating for Paul George's absence. Meanwhile, the Mavericks had their pre-trade deadline roster, which was depleted as Kyrie Irving wasn't active.
Luka Doncic tallied 28 points, nine rebounds and 10 assists, while Tim Hardaway Jr. had 21 points off the bench. However, the Mavericks shot a measly 42.9% from the field while allowing the Clippers to shoot 55.8%. The Clippers also went 92.0% from the charity stripe, while Dallas shot 70.4%.
These factors proved decisive in the grand scheme of things as Dallas pretty much did everything at par with the Clippers in that contest to stay afloat, but a few miscues on both ends hurt them.
Guess the Bulls players in this quiz and it's not going to be easy!
