Clippers to Clash with Mavs in First Round of Playoffs

Confirmed: The Mavericks and L.A. Clippers are slated to clash once again in Round 1 of the playoffs. With star players like Luka Doncic, Kawhi Leonard, Kyrie Irving, Paul George, James Harden, and Russell Westbrook in the mix, this matchup promises to be one of the most captivating first-round series, given the history between the teams. Dallas secures the Southwest Division title with a decisive 111-92 victory over Miami, setting the stage for their third Round 1 encounter with the Clippers in five years.

In the previous two playoff matchups against the Clippers in 2020 and 2021, the Mavericks (50-30) didn't enjoy home-court advantage. However, there's a slim chance they could host their first-round playoff series at the American Airlines Center if they win their remaining regular-season games against Detroit and Oklahoma City. Nonetheless, their seeding fate isn't solely within their control. They'll also require assistance from the Clippers, who must lose their final two games against Utah and Houston to drop to the fifth seed.

Should Dallas suffer a loss or the Clippers secure a victory before April 14, the series' first game will be held at Crypto.com Arena.


As for the advantage, let's delve into an early scouting report of the series, including a review of the three-game regular-season series that favored L.A.

In the early months of the season, the Mavericks and Clippers clashed three times, but roster changes since then make those results less relevant. Despite the Clippers winning 2-1, Dallas has strengthened its lineup with additions like Daniel Gafford and P.J. Washington.

While the Mavericks took a convincing victory on Nov. 10 with Luka Doncic's standout performance, the Clippers retaliated with wins on Nov. 25 and Dec. 20. However, these matchups occurred before the Mavericks acquired Gafford and Washington.

In past playoffs, the Clippers triumphed over the Mavericks, but Doncic's standout plays have kept fans on edge. As the teams gear up for another showdown, the outcome may hinge on player health and strategic coaching decisions.

Source Dallas News : Scouting Mavericks-Clippers: Stage set for Round 3 between Luka Doncic, Kawhi Leonard
Source RealGM : Clippers To Play Mavs In First Round Of Playoffs