3 Studs, 2 duds from Mavericks' chippy Game 3 win over Clippers

On Friday night, the Dallas Mavericks took on the LA Clippers in a pivotal Game 3 at the American Airlines Center.

The Mavs had split the first two games in LA with a disappointing loss in Game 1 and a gutsy win in Game 2, and Game 3 was Dallas' best game of all three of them as they won 101-90.

The Mavs got out of the gates hot as they led 54-41 at halftime, and the game was physical and chippy from the opening tip to the final buzzer. Russell Westbrook was called for a flagrant one foul after hitting Josh Green in the head.

3 Studs, 2 duds from Mavericks' chippy Game 3 win over Clippers

This play got the crowd much more involved than it already was, and Green finished with a strong first half as he had six points and brought his usual energy. He was clearly an X-factor heading into this series, and he is someone who could help take this team to new heights if he can play with consistency.

Here are three studs and two duds from the Mavs' crucial home victory over the LA Clippers.

5. Stud - Daniel Gafford

Daniel Gafford feeds off energy and some of the loudest moments at the American Airlines Center throughout the regular season were hustle plays by Gafford. The crowd loves it when he creates second-chance opportunities, finishes lobs, and runs the floor.

His energy is infectious, and his start to this game alone helped the Mavs get out to an early lead that helped propel them to this win.

Gafford had six early points, two of which were dunks, and he got the crowd involved early. The American Airlines Center erupted after his bucket to start the game that he created himself with an offensive rebound after Luka Doncic missed a three, and his presence on the floor is always felt.

His chest slaps, screams, and encouragement to teammates show how important he is to the team, and his dunks are always pivotal points in the game. His blocks also always bring energy and he is never afraid to get dunked on.

Dallas continues to be elite with Gafford as the starting center, and although Ivica Zubac still had a good game, he didn't noticeably dominate down low as much as he did earlier in the series.