It’s not an exaggeration to say that Luka Doncic and the Dallas Mavericks deeply understand how the Los Angeles Clippers play at this point of their playoff rivalry. This is the third time the two squads have faced each other in the Western Conference first round in five years.
While the Clippers have won the last two series, Luka Doncic has made his presence felt. The Slovenian wonder has been a constant thorn to the Clippers, with his postseason heroics being one of the primary reasons why the past two series have reached at least six games.
Now that they’re in their third year of playing each other in the postseason, Doncic is more than aware of almost everything the Clippers can do. He maximized his knowledge and powered an inspired run that allowed the slight underdogs to beat the Clippers in a thrilling battle for neutral NBA fans.
The Mavericks’ Game 2 performance is a direct response to Doncic’s challenge, and Luka Magic was in full display during the fourth quarter. His drive during the final minutes of every postseason game against LA is mesmerizing to watch, and fans couldn’t help but wonder what’s the secret behind his success.
Luka Doncic shares his secret behind his incredible fourth-quarter performances for the Dallas Mavericks
During his post-game presser, Doncic was asked about his drive that helps him propel the Mavericks in the fourth quarter. He revealed that his approach to the game’s final frame is more straightforward than one might think.
“My mindset in the fourth quarter is trying to win the game,” Doncic said. “Sometimes I drive, somebody’s going to be open… Just try to win the game, try to make big plays… Just go in, go get a win.”
This determination can be seen in the box score. Doncic finished Game 2 with 32 points, six rebounds, nine assists, a steal, and a block. He was relentless on both fronts, which helped the team pull off the win despite Kawhi Leonard’s return to the Clippers lineup.
He also shared that having Kyrie Irving around helps ease the pressure off him. “I know that Kai is next to me, so it makes my life easier,” Doncic said of his teammate.
Now that they’re coming home for Game 3, Doncic and the rest of the Dallas Mavericks will be eager to keep the momentum going and finally get a series win over the Clippers.
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