Mavericks: What to watch for in preseason tilt vs. Clippers

The Dallas Mavericks dominated the short-handed Utah Jazz in their preseason opener as superstar Luka Doncic absolutely went off in the first half. Fans were reminded just how special the 22-year-old is on Wednesday.

The Mavs are back in action on Friday as they host the LA Clippers in their second preseason game. It is game three for the rival Clippers. They defeated the Denver Nuggets on Monday before falling to the Sacramento Kings on Wednesday as Kawhi Leonard, Serge Ibaka, and Marcus Morris Sr. have yet to play this preseason.

The Mavs will again be holding out a few rotation pieces, but their projected starting five is set to play on Friday night. Here is a look at how and why fans should watch the game.

Dallas Mavericks vs. LA Clippers preseason: How to watch

Start time: Oct. 8 at 7:30 p.m. CT or 8:30 p.m. ET

How to watch: Bally Sports Southwest (Dallas market)

Watch online: Bally Sports website (Dallas local), NBA League Pass

Dallas Mavericks vs. LA Clippers preseason:  Injury updates

Coach Jason Kidd announced following practice on Thursday that Maxi Kleber and Reggie Bullock would both sit out to rest versus the Clippers. He also noted that Jalen Brunson will be the team’s emergency player and only play in the event of an injury. Tyrell Terry remains away from the team dealing with a personal issue, but the Mavs will have all five projected starters available on Friday night.

The Clippers ruled out Nicolas Batum and Marcus Morris Sr. for rest against the Mavericks. They will also be without Kawhi Leonard (knee), Serge Ibaka (back), and Jason Preston (foot) with Ivica Zubac (shoulder) questionable leaving LA short-handed as they visit the American Airlines Center.

Remember, it is a preseason game and things can change quickly, so be sure to check Twitter just before tipoff for all the latest.

Dallas Mavericks vs. LA Clippers preseason storyline to watch: Luka revenge tour

Luka Doncic destroyed the LA Clippers in the 2021 playoffs as he averaged 35.7 points, 10.3 assists, and 7.9 rebounds over the seven games, but Kawhi Leonard got the last laugh as they took the series. The Mavericks superstar enters this season in fantastic shape and is ready to lead his team on a deep playoff run. Expect another monster performance on Friday, but Doncic will again be restricted to playing just in the first half.

Fans should be watching closely for changes under head coach Jason Kidd. The Mavs are switching up their defensive scheme and making subtle changes on offense that should come to light during the preseason. Be on the lookout for more as Dallas plays their entire starting five in a cannot miss game on Oct. 8.