Dallas Mavericks: 5 keys to victory in LA Clippers series

The Dallas Mavericks climbed to fifth in the Western Conference and won the Southwest Division this year, but they face a familiar foe in the first round of the playoffs. The LA Clippers await for the second straight postseason. Luka Doncic and the Mavs nearly pulled the upset inside the bubble, and believe they can make it happen in 2021.

The Clippers are a difficult team to peg entering the playoffs. Kawhi Leonard and Paul George give them plenty of star power. They also have depth, but LA may lack chemistry for the second straight year. The Clippers added Rajon Rondo and DeMarcus Cousins midseason. Only three players on their team made more than 40 starts. Will they be able to overcome a lack of time on the court together?

The Mavericks are hungry for playoff success. They have not won a series since their 2011 title team. Can the Mavs upset the Clippers? Here are five keys to a Dallas victory in the series.

5 keys to Dallas Mavericks defeating the LA Clippers in the first round of the playoffs

The Mavs have a few injury question marks entering the series. Maxi Kleber missed the final two regular-season games and six of the last eight with an Achilles issue. He played a key role in defending Kawhi Leonard during the bubble playoffs. Kleber’s injury is concerning. Hopefully, the five-day break will help him get healthy. J.J. Redick missed the final three games with a heel injury that has been impacting him since the bubble. The Mavericks may be without both players.

How can the Dallas Mavericks overcome the injures and upset the LA Clippers? Here are five keys to the series.

Next: No. 5