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Luka Doncic's 39-point Performance Helps Mavs Take 2-0 Lead over Clippers in Western Conference First Round
Doncic and Leonard's Duel Highlights Playoff Opener
In a thrilling Western Conference First Round matchup, Luka Doncic led the Dallas Mavericks to a 106-81 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday, giving the Mavericks a 2-0 advantage in the series. Doncic, the Slovenian superstar, put on another dazzling playoff performance, scoring a game-high 39 points, grabbing 11 rebounds, and dishing out 7 assists. His outstanding play effectively neutralized the impact of Clippers' star Kawhi Leonard, who finished with a team-high 41 points.
Mavs Dominate in Second Half
After a closely contested first half, the Mavericks took control of the game in the third quarter, outscoring the Clippers 36-18. Doncic was unstoppable, scoring 16 points in the quarter, including a pair of three-pointers. The Mavericks continued to build their lead in the fourth quarter, with Kristaps Porzingis contributing 15 points and Tim Hardaway Jr. adding 14.
The Clippers struggled to find their rhythm offensively, shooting just 39% from the field compared to the Mavericks' 50%. Leonard was their only consistent threat, while Paul George struggled, finishing with just 15 points on 5-of-16 shooting.
With the victory, the Mavericks now hold a commanding lead in the series. Game 3 will be played on Tuesday in Los Angeles, where the Clippers will be desperate to avoid going down 0-3.
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