Dallas Mavericks: 5 adjustments to expect in Game 4 vs. Clippers

Adjustment to expect in Game 4 of Dallas Mavericks vs. Clippers: 2. Attack the rim

The Mavs shot 51.3 percent from 3-point range, but just 44.2 percent from the field in Game 3. They were 18 of 47 or 38.3 percent on their twos. Mavericks coach Rick Carlisle had this to say about the Clippers’ game plan in Game 3 during his press conference on May 29.

"“They obviously made an effort to close off the paint more. They did a good job. We only had 24 paint points, and we need to get in there more. With better defense, we are going to have more opportunities there.”"

LA ran the Mavs off the 3-point line but kept them out of the paint in Game 3. A perfect example happened on the first play of the game. Dorian Finney-Smith had a wide-open 3-pointer, but Ivica Zubac closed hard and forced him into a long two as three Clippers were waiting in the paint.

LA cannot stop everything. If they are committing extra bodies in the paint, the Mavericks need to kick out and hit open 3-pointers. Attacking the rim creates spaces and quality shots. Dallas needs to get downhill more in Game 4 if they are going to pull off the win in front of an exhilarating American Airlines Center crowd.

No player needs to attack more than Kristaps Porzingis. The 7’3 big man must get shots in the paint as the Clippers go small. He has settled for too many long deuces and contested jumpers. KP must use his size advantage and get inside.

Next: No. 1