3 Studs, 2 duds in Mavericks' road loss against Clippers

3. Stud - Team defense

In a game where offensive contributions faced challenges, it was the tenacity and discipline of the Mavericks' defense that kept them in the game, holding the Clippers to 107 total points.

The collective effort to contain guys like Kawhi Leonard, James Harden, and Russell Westbrook, showcased a commendable defensive scheme. These three, known for their scoring ability, were held to a combined 30 points, a testament to the Mavericks' effort on the defensive end.

The trio concluded the game with a collective 10-of-29 shooting from the field, and it's worth noting that the majority of those baskets were delivered by Westbrook in the late stages of the fourth quarter. While the loss against the Clippers presented challenges, the Mavericks can take pride in their ability to contain these key players, limiting their impact.

The ability to disrupt key opponents speaks to the Mavericks' defensive identity and their capacity to adapt to varying playing styles. While the overall outcome might not have favored the team, the positive takeaway lies in the defensive foundation laid out against some of the league's elite.

As the Mavericks look ahead, building upon this defensive prowess could serve as a cornerstone for their future, providing a solid platform to stop offensive challenges and remain competitive in tightly contested matchups.