Dallas Mavericks: 5 takeaways from Game 3 loss to LA Clippers

Dallas Mavericks takeaway from Game 3 loss to Clippers: 4. Defending Kawhi

Kawhi Leonard is dominating the Mavs in the series. The superstar needs no introduction. He led the Toronto Raptors to a championship last season. Leonard is continuing his playoff magic against the Mavericks.

The 29-year-old had 36 points, nine rebounds, eight assists, two steals, and one block in 39 minutes in game three. Kawhi shot 13 of 24 from the field and made nine of his ten free throws. It was an incredible performance on both ends by one of the NBA’s best players.

Leonard has dropped 29, 35, and 36 points in the three games. The Mavericks have primarily used Maxi Kleber on Kawhi. He is struggling, but Leonard roasted Dorian Finney-Smith during the regular season too.

The Dallas Mavericks have no answer for Kawhi Leonard. What they need to do is limit his playmaking. He had six and eight assists in the Clippers’ two wins. Leonard produced two in the Mavericks upset. The Clippers superstar is going to keep scoring, just do not let him become their best playmaker too.

That could mean a bit less attention on Kawhi. Do not bring the extra defender. Make Leonard beat you by dropping 50.

Next: No. 3