Mavericks: Did Clippers figure out Luka Doncic in second half of Game 1?

Dallas Mavericks Luka Doncic Kawhi Leonard Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Dallas Mavericks Luka Doncic Kawhi Leonard Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dallas Mavericks, Luka Doncic
Dallas Mavericks Luka Doncic Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /

How can the Mavericks adjust to get Luka Doncic rolling again?

Luka found some cracks late in Game 1. He was able to move without the ball to get an open 3-point look early in the fourth quarter.

https://videos.nba.com/nba/pbp/media/2021/05/22/0042000171/478/db24ab02-c095-4705-20d0-610ca985edae_1280x720.mp4

It is one option Dallas has to try to get him open if the Clippers are committing two players to him every time he calls for a screen.

Luka could also iso more in Game 2. Here the Mavericks spread the floor for Doncic to take Paul George off the dribble. He gets off a floater with the shot clock expiring, but it does not go in.

https://videos.nba.com/nba/pbp/media/2021/05/22/0042000171/552/cdde2f35-39cc-e9ba-ce1b-ed9ad2ff0f99_1280x720.mp4

The 22-year-old ranked inside the top 20 percent in points per possession off an isolation, per NBA Stats. It is something Dallas could exploit in Game 2.

Luka Doncic is no stranger to seeing double teams. According to NBA CourtOptics, he was double-teamed a league-leading 27.2 possessions per game. The 22-year-old superstar had an outstanding year. He has figured out every defense. Yes, the Clippers have a few standout wing defenders, but Patrick Beverley is too small. Kawhi Leonard and Paul George do not want to risk getting into foul trouble trying to guard Doncic for 40-plus minutes. That means Rajon Rondo, Marcus Morris Sr., and others must step up and take on possessions against Luka.

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Expect another monster performance from Luka Doncic as the Dallas Mavericks look to take a commanding 2-0 lead in the series on May 25. Fans will not want to miss a second of the action, so please tune in and enjoy the contest.