The Mavericks are back on the winning track, and it’s no coincidence that they did it just the day Luka Doncic returned to action. The Slovenian, who had missed the previous three games due to injury – all ended with defeat – led the Texas team in a game that ended up deciding in extra time with a Kristaps Porzingis who, now, is being a great ally for the base.
In an even match, Doncic touched the triple-double with 26 points, 9 rebounds and 9 assists, while the Latvian player scored 30 points (including 6 of his team’s 9 in extra time) and added 7 rebounds. They were the foundation of the win, one that was able to fly after they squandered a 10-point income with only three and a half minutes remaining.
That’s how it is. Dallas was winning 92-102 and it seemed that the night was seen for judgment; however, an 11-1 run for the Clippers led to overtime. Well, the set and Paul George, who with just one second to play, nailed a triple that made it 103-103. It was a moment of jubilation for the Angelenos, who however were completely overcome in the five minutes of added time to decide the winner.
“For a second you are disappointed because we should have finished the game earlier, but I think we are growing mentally as a team. We realized that it was five more minutes and we went out and showed that we are the best team, ”says Porzingis, who has seven consecutive games scoring at least 20 points.
If there’s anyone happy in Dallas, it’s Jason Kidd. The coach is more than satisfied with what he is seeing in the team, especially since his two stars are complementing each other at a high level. Seeing Doncic return and that that does not affect Porzingis’ contribution, is something fantastic for the coach.
«KP He is playing at a very high level. He did not force anything. Sometimes when a star player returns, others can change their game, but he didn’t. Luka’s preparation work in the last two days was of a high level. I had the feeling of feeling and great confidence that the other guys were going to make plays, “he explains.
Reggie Jackson, 31 points
Reggie Jackson is still in great shape. The guard went up to 31 points last night, which is his highest score since joining the Clipeprs two and a half seasons ago. His was the triple that brought his team closer so that later Paul George (26 points) forced extra time. The performance of both depends to a large extent on the present of the Californians, who see Dallas – after two consecutive playoff series – as a rival with whom to continue measuring forces in the short term.
“These are two great teams with great players. We both step onto the court fully focused on our principles. There are many similarities. I think we will continue to have great battles, “says Jackson.
(Photograph by Sean M. Haffey / Getty Images)
