The short-handed Mavericks came up short
The Dallas Mavericks lost 118-95 to the Los Angeles Clippers Thursday night in Dallas. Klay Thompson led the Mavericks with 22 points while Norman Powell paced the Clippers with 29 on elite efficiency (10-of-18 from the floor, 4-of-8 from three and 5-of-5 from the free throw line).
The Mavericks were without their superstar backcourt despite only playing one game in nine days. The Mavericks were simply not able to create enough quality offense with the elite backcourt sitting. Thompson tried to provide in their absence and overall he was good, but he was 2-of-9 from three as his shot let him down.
Spencer Dinwiddie also chipped in with 19 points and seven assists. It was not enough to combat the Clippers, who had Ivica Zubac and James Harden join Powell in scoring over 20.
Here are the things to know.
Zubac is a problem for the Mavericks
The Mavericks center rotation is a strength and in most matchups, they have an advantage. In games where Doncic and Irving are present to punish Zubac in pick-and-rolls they may even have an advantage in this matchup. But without the star guards, Zubac was able to pummel the Mavericks’ centers en route to 21 points, 15 rebounds and five assists.
The Mavericks could not box him out or defend him, resulting in doubles. This led to kick outs from post ups and offensive rebounds. The resulting threes felt like backbreakers.
The Mavericks really missed their stars tonight
The Mavericks have bigger goals than winning a December game. But the location of May and June games can be determined in December. Doncic’s and Irving’s health are of paramount importance. They need to be taken care of, but the best ability is availability and part of being a superstar is being there for your teammates. Without both of the guards, the Mavericks just could not create enough offense to win or even compete.
Naji Marshall is still an upgrade from Derrick Jones Jr.
Marshall was not at his best tonight as he has yet to find a rhythm in his return from illness. However, with Jones on the court at the same time, it was obvious how much more developed and polished Marshall’s offensive game is.
Jones did a fantastic job for the Mavericks last year, and he is a good NBA player. At the highest levels he had limitations that could be exploited. Marshall does not share those limitations.
Overall, there simply aren’t many long term takeaways other the Mavericks need Doncic and Irving to be successful.