Dallas Mavericks vs La Clippers Picks and Predictions December 21st 2024

Mavericks Reunite with Kyrie Irving as Clippers Eye Sweep

The Los Angeles Clippers will look to follow up Thursday’s dominant win with another victory over the Dallas Mavericks when the teams clash Saturday night in Dallas. While the Clippers aim for a two-game sweep, the Mavericks are bolstered by the return of Kyrie Irving as they seek revenge on their home floor.

Clippers Building Momentum

Los Angeles flexed its depth in Thursday’s 118-95 win, pulling away in the second half behind a trio of standout performances. Norman Powell continued his All-Star-caliber season with 29 points, while James Harden added 27 and Ivica Zubac contributed 18 points and 12 rebounds. Powell, who is averaging career highs in points (23.7) and shooting percentages, attributed their success to chemistry.

“When we all have it going like that, it’s hard to guard,” Powell said. “We’re learning how to play off each other, and it’s showing on the court.”

The Clippers have now won 10 of their past 15 games, solidifying their spot in the Western Conference playoff race. Despite their strong play, the team continues to await the return of Kawhi Leonard, sidelined with a lingering knee injury. Leonard isn’t expected back during this three-game road trip but could rejoin the lineup soon.

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Mavericks Welcome Kyrie Irving Back

The Mavericks, playing without stars Luka Doncic and Irving on Thursday, struggled offensively. They shot just 39.5 percent from the floor and a dismal 23.3 percent from beyond the arc, with Klay Thompson leading the team with 22 points.

Saturday brings better news for Dallas as Irving, averaging 23.9 points and 5.3 assists, is set to return from a shoulder injury. His presence provides a much-needed offensive spark with Doncic (heel bruise) still sidelined.

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Head coach Jason Kidd praised his team’s effort despite the loss, saying, “The group in the locker room played hard. We just came up short. We’ll suit up the guys that can go.”

Key Matchups and Outlook

• Kyrie Irving vs. Clippers’ Defense: Irving’s return will test a Clippers defense that held Dallas to under 40 percent shooting on Thursday. His ability to create shots and facilitate will be pivotal for Dallas to keep pace.
• Clippers’ Balanced Attack: Powell, Harden, and Zubac combined for 74 points in the previous meeting. If the Mavericks can’t contain all three, Los Angeles could have another big night.
• Mavericks’ Perimeter Shooting: After a poor shooting night from deep, Dallas will need players like Tim Hardaway Jr. and Josh Green to step up and stretch the Clippers’ defense.

The Clippers sit just 1.5 games behind Dallas in the standings, making this game critical for both teams. With Irving back, the Mavericks have a chance to rebound and protect home court, while the Clippers will aim to continue their climb in the Western Conference.