Easily dominated by the Mavericks during Game 3, the Clippers found themselves back against the wall, with the fear of being down 3-1 before returning home. To avoid this catastrophic scenario, the leaders will all have to pull in the same direction this evening (at 9:30 p.m.). But are they capable of it?
The context :
Despite the home advantage thanks to their 4th place, the Clippers are severely disappointed against the Mavericks. After a very solid Game 1, the Angelinos began to stutter with their basketball. If the second match was narrowly lost, Game 3 left no doubt about the dynamic of the moment between the two teams. The Mavs are making the most of the Clippers’ weaknesses (especially in the racket) and they are having more and more difficulty finding the answers to counterattack. However, we will have to react and quickly, because a brutal exit in the first round could do damage within the franchise.
Player to watch: Luka Doncic
Hit in the knee during Game 3, Luka Doncic was able to finish the match but we still felt that he was hampered in his game. More long shots, less drive and much more clumsiness than during the first two matches . Fortunately, Lulu remains a lethal passer, and Derek Lively was able to enjoy his caviars on pick and roll. Announced doubtful for Game 4 due to knee pain, Doncic should be able to hold his place but it will be interesting to see if he is able to have as much impact while gritting his teeth.
The big question: Is Kawhi Leonard really fit to play?
We’re not doctors, but just seeing Kawhi Leonard on the field makes you feel like something’s wrong with the Klaw. We said to ourselves that it was a rhythm problem after Game 2 but the copy given by the double MVP of the Finals during the following round did not reassure anything. The player later confirmed that he still had pain in his knee. The winger was listed as “doubtful” for tonight’s game. If LA has several major players within its squad, Kawhi nevertheless remains the figurehead of the sailboat. As is often the case with the Clippers, bad news comes at the worst time.
The X Factor: Russell Westbrook, angel or demon?
If we had to remember one face from Game 3, it would be that of Russell Westbrook. First valuable in defense on Luka Doncic, Brodie gradually came out of his match. Very tense, guilty of bad gestures, the former MVP got into arguments with several Mavericks players while insulting the public, before finally being expelled for a beef with PJ Washington. Besides that, we can’t really say that the player had a lot of influence on the match, finishing with 1 point and 0/7 shooting in 19 minutes… Excellent on a regular basis in this role of dynamiter from the bench, Westbrook has a role key in the shape of the Clippers, but we will have to show our best face this evening.
