Image credit: ClutchPoints

The first round of the NBA Playoffs has been highly competitive. The Los Angeles Clippers are amid an intense battle with the Dallas Mavericks with the series tied up going into Game 5. Wednesday night’s matchup will be pivotal. However, a billboard company outside the Clippers arena stirred the pot with a hilarious Cancun ad.

The ad outside the arena reportedly read “Dallas to Cancun,” as provided by NBA on ESPN:

Despite the ad’s comical and bold nature, the Clippers are not on board. The ad is scheduled to be taken down before the start of Game 5. In addition, LA provided a statement amid the buzz.

“The billboard at L.A. Live is not owned or operated by the Clippers. We have the utmost respect for our opponents and in no endorse this message,” per ESPN’s Ohm Youngmisuk.

Los Angeles’ statement was a sound move to calm things down before their important matchup. Still, if there is anything to get the Mavericks more fired up, the Cancun ad would certainly do it.

Clippers look to defend their home court against Mavericks in Game 5

Dallas is coming off a 116-111 Game 4 loss. The Mavs received outstanding production from Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. Doncic finished the night with a triple-double of 29 points, 10 assists, and 10 rebounds. Meanwhile, Irving notched a team-high 40 points. Thankfully, the Clippers were able to keep the stars at bay enough to get the win.

LA benefitted from the two-headed monster of Paul George and James Harden, who both amassed 33 points. The Clippers also received double-digit scoring nights from Terrance Mann, Norman Powell, and Ivica Zubac. Mann and Powell contributed 11 points apiece, while Zubac put up 13.

The Clippers will need another all-around team effort to defend their home court and get a step closer to the second round of the NBA Playoffs. Of course, the ultimate X factor of the series has been player health. Kawhi Leonard was ruled out indefinitely after appearing in Games 2 and 3 with knee inflammation.

Luka Doncic is also rumored to be dealing with ailments amid the intense matchup. Nevertheless, Los Angeles looks to overcome all trials and triumph in a crucial Game 5.

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