Dallas Mavericks: Josh Richardson takes Defensive belt in win over Clippers

The Dallas Mavericks handed out some revenge on March 17 as they battled the LA Clippers for the second straight game. Kawhi Leonard and company shut the Mavs out for the final three minutes to pick up the win on Monday. Luka Doncic was not going to let the Clippers get the upper hand, especially after they knocked the Mavericks out of the playoffs inside the bubble.

The 22-year-old superstar came out red hot and finished with 42 points in the 105-89 victory over LA on Wednesday night. It was an incredible performance that featured multiple jaw-dropping plays, but Dallas did it with defense too. Holding the Clippers to 89 points is no easy task. It was the second time in three tries that the Mavericks dominated LA this season.

It was a fantastic all-around performance on the defensive end, but Josh Richardson took home the belt. Here is a closer look at his play and what separated him on March 17.

Josh Richardson win Defensive Player of the Game belt as Mavericks top Clippers

The Mavs were without Dorian Finney-Smith and James Johnson on Wednesday night. They needed Josh Richardson to step up and be the team’s top perimeter option. He did not disappoint against the Clippers. See him celebrating with the belt below.

Richardson had three steals, one block, and five rebounds in 39 minutes of action on March 17. He chipped in 14 points on five of nine shooting from the field too. It was a fantastic performance that Dallas needed to top one of the best teams in the NBA. Coach Rick Carlisle praised Richardson’s hustle and energy after the game. He noted it was a key to him winning the belt on Wednesday night.

The Dallas Mavericks travel to Portland for a two-game set against the Trail Blazers this weekend. Fans will want to tune in on Friday and Sunday for what promises to be two exciting games against another playoff hopeful. Do not miss it.