Los Angeles, California – Dallas Mavericks’ star Luka Doncic showed exceptional resilience and determination during Wednesday night’s game against the LA Clippers, despite battling illness and a knee injury. Doncic’s outstanding performance of 35 points, 7 rebounds, and 10 assists led the Mavericks to a crucial 123-93 victory in Game 5, putting the Clippers on the edge of elimination.
Doncic’s commitment to the game was evident as he played through an illness that had been bothering him for days, along with a sprained knee sustained in Game 3. Despite acknowledging that he would likely sit out if it were the regular season, the playoffs brought out a different level of adrenaline and determination in the young star.
Throughout the game, Doncic’s dominance shone through, particularly in the third quarter, where he scored 14 points and dished out 3 assists to help expand Dallas’ lead. Despite struggling with his jump shot, Doncic excelled in driving to the basket, scoring 20 points in the paint. His defensive performance also stood out, with the Clippers struggling to make shots when guarded by him.
Teammate Kyrie Irving praised Doncic’s resilience, pointing out his ability to push through despite not feeling his best. Doncic’s impact on the game was undeniable, scoring or assisting on 61 of the Mavericks’ total points. This marked the fifth 30-point, 10-assist game of his postseason career, showcasing his exceptional talent and leadership on the court.
With this victory, the Mavericks have put the Clippers in a precarious position, needing to win the next game to stay alive in the playoffs. Clippers coach Tyronn Lue acknowledged Doncic’s impact, emphasizing the need for his team to regroup and come back stronger in Game 6. The series is now at a critical juncture, with both teams preparing for a decisive showdown in the next game.