Kawhi Leonard out versus Dallas Mavericks: How will the Clippers adjust

Kawhi Leonard out versus Dallas Mavericks: How will Clippers adjust?

The Dallas Mavericks continue their difficult stretch to begin the season on Sunday as they face the Clippers in Los Angeles. Dallas dropped their first two games both on the road against expected playoff teams meaning the Mavs have plenty of issues to clean up. Luka Doncic will try to lead his team to their first win of the 2020-2021 season against the team that bounced them from the playoff inside the Walt Disney World bubble.

The game is a Sunday afternoon matinee. The primetime game in Europe gives Luka a bit of extra energy because he knows his family and friends are watching. Dallas also caught a bit of a break before tipoff.

Kawhi Leonard was ruled out after taking an elbow from teammate Serge Ibaka on Christmas Day. The superstar needed eight stitches and will not be ready to play. How will the Clippers adjust against the Mavs?

Kawhi Leonard out versus Dallas Mavericks: How do the Clippers adjust?

LA is inserting Luke Kennard into their starting lineup. Expect him, Reggie Jackson, and Lou Williams to play more minutes against the Mavericks. Make no mistake the Clippers are still a dangerous team. Paul George will take over as their leading scorer. They will need more points from Williams, Serge Ibaka, and Kennard to top the Mavs on Dec. 27.

Dallas should counter by putting Josh Richardson on Paul George. That will allow Dorian Finney-Smith to matchup against Ibaka. The Mavericks need to be better on defense, and rebounding will be a massive point of emphasis for Dallas after giving up 35 second-chance points on Christmas Day.

The Dallas Mavericks need to take advantage of Kawhi Leonard being out and grab their first victory of the season on Sunday. It won’t be easy as the Clippers have a deep squad that is ready to prove they are legit title contenders this season. The game promises to be full of excitement, so do not miss it.