Today, the NBA playoffs continue with the Dallas Mavericks and Los Angeles Clippers in Game 2 of the series.
In the first matchup, the Clippers played very well, beating the Mavericks themselves in the Mavericks' way, and Harden played an extremely exciting game, which was remarkable. But the Mavericks are certainly not convinced, and they will need to use better defense and more proactive teamwork to overcome the Clippers.
There is good news for the Clippers, Leonard is finally available on the court, and there is no playing time limit. But the Mavericks have learned smart this time around, and they're not just going to let Doncic and Irving play, but to involve as many teammates as possible in the game.
In the first quarter of the game, Nowitzki's German fellow Kleber teamed up with Doncic to play well and help the Mavericks take the lead into the second quarter. Although the Clippers struggled to chase down points in the second quarter, the Mavericks were able to maintain a slight lead.
In the second half, Irving and PJ Washington played a scoring highlight, but the Clippers led the lead by Harden and George. In the final quarter, PJ Washington and Powell stepped up, and Doncic hit a three-pointer to help the Mavericks lead by nine points with about 1 minute left in the game.
The Clippers frantically chased the score, but Kleber stepped up again and threw a long-range shot, teamed up with Doncic to stabilize the situation, and passed the danger 96-93, and the overall score became a 1-1 tie.
As a veteran of the Nowitzki era, Kleber's presence in the Mavericks is not high, and it can be said that there is only one German element left in this team. At critical moments, when Doncic needs support, it is really good to stand up and reflect his value.