Dallas Mavericks: What to watch for in Mavs vs. Clippers Game 3

The Dallas Mavericks went to the Staples Center and defeated the favored LA Clippers in two straight games. Superstar Luka Doncic has been unbelievable so far. He had 39 points in Game 2 to lift Dallas to a commanding lead.

The series is far from over, though. LA is unlikely to go down without a fight. Game 3 takes place on Friday in Dallas. It is a must-win for Kawhi Leonard and company. No team in NBA history has overcome a 3-0 series deficit. Expect the Clippers to come out hot as they attempt to get back into the series.

Fans will not want to miss Game 3. Here is how and what to watch for on May 28 as the Mavericks host the Clippers at the American Airlines Center.

Dallas Mavericks vs. LA Clippers Game 3: How to watch

Start time: 8:30 p.m. CT or 9:30 p.m. ET

How to watch: ESPN (national), Bally Sports Southwest (Dallas market), Bally Sports SoCal (Clippers market)

Watch online: Watch ESPN, Bally Sports app (both local market)

Dallas Mavericks vs. LA Clippers Game 3 injury updates

Maxi Kleber is back on the NBA’s official injury report heading into Friday’s game. He is listed as questionable with right Achilles soreness. Kleber has started each of the first two games and been the primary defender on Kawhi Leonard. The Mavericks need him healthy and on the floor on Friday night. J.J. Redick remains out and is the only other Maverick listed on the injury report.

Serge Ibaka is listed as questionable for Game 3 with back spasms. He has been limited to just 18 minutes so far in the series and has dealt with back issues since March.

Be sure to check Twitter closer to tipoff for the latest updates on Kleber and Ibaka, plus any late-breaking information heading into Game 3.

Dallas Mavericks vs. LA Clippers Game 3 storyline to watch: Adjustments

Mavs coach Rick Carlisle had this to say about Friday’s game following practice on May 27.

"“I don’t think there will be any doubt that Game 3 will be the most difficult game we’ve faced all season. Because we are up 2-0, they are going to throw everything at us. There is going to be an even higher level of physicality to start the game, and we’ve just got to be ready.”"

The Mavericks will need Luka Doncic to be outstanding to go up 3-0. Fans should expect plenty of adjustments on both sides. The Clippers are likely to go small and try to ramp up the switching as they throw different looks at the 22-year-old superstar.

Dallas needs others to step up to go up 3-0. Luka is going to get his numbers, but the Mavs need their role players to keep up their production to grab another win.

Fans should expect a wild and entertaining game on Friday night. The American Airlines Center will have 16,000-plus fans. It will be the first time both teams have played in front of that type of crown since the pandemic shut down the NBA in March 2020. Do not miss the fun as the Dallas Mavericks attempt to go up 3-0.