Dallas Mavericks: 3 players that need to step up in Game 1 vs. Clippers

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Dallas Mavericks Kristaps Porzingis (Photo by Ashley Landis-Pool/Getty Images) /

Dallas Mavericks player that needs to step up: 1. Kristaps Porzingis

This first-round series hinges on the play of Porzingis. The Mavs need serious production from the Unicorn on both ends of the floor. Fans can read the five reasons why Porzingis is the key to victory for the Mavericks here.

KP needs to keep the Clippers off the offensive glass. Second chance opportunities and easy buckets have killed Dallas in the first three meetings. Porzingis and Finney-Smith must box out and keep LA out of the paint on Monday night.

The Mavs need KP to score efficiently too. The Unicorn dropping 25 plus with strong percentages gives Dallas a chance at an upset. The Clippers will give him open 3-point attempts. Zinger must knock them down.

If he protects the rim and the glass, the Mavericks could walk away with the win. Hopefully, Kristaps Porzingis can make it happen in his first NBA playoff game.

Next. 5 keys to the Mavs upsetting the Clippers in the playoffs

Dallas Mavericks fans will not want to miss a second of the action on Aug. 17. It is the next step in the team’s ascension. Luka and KP will have playoff experience come Tuesday morning. Check back to The Smoking Cuban for opinions and analysis after the game. Supporters will not want to miss it.