Connect with us

Sports

Will Kawhi Leonard Play Tonight? LA Clippers vs Dallas Mavericks Game 2: Prediction, Injuries, & Lineups

The LA Clippers face off against the Dallas Mavericks tonight for the second game of their Playoffs run. This game is scheduled to be held at the Staples Center at 10:30 PM EST.

The Clippers got off to a rough start in the Playoffs as they lost Game 1 against the Mavericks 113-103. Despite having lock down defenders like Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, the Clippers had no answer for Mavericks young Star Luka Doncic.

The Clippers uncharacteristically were poor from the three point line shooting only 11 of 40 shots they attempted from the perimeter.

Despite them missing multiple the pointers, the team was in a catching distance of the Mavs and even had a 3 point lead with 6:08 minutes remaining on the clock.

But in the last 6 minutes of the game the Clippers were dreadful, only adding 5 points to Mavs 18. The Clippers need to figure out how to stop Doncic and will hope that either Leonard or George can be the closer of the team.

May 22, 2021; Los Angeles, California, USA; LA Clippers guard Paul George (13) knocks the ball away from Dallas Mavericks center Kristaps Porzingis (6) in the first quarter during game one in the first round of the 2021 NBA Playoffs at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports

The Mavericks, meanwhile, were fantastic against the Clippers. Luka Doncic was undoubtedly the star of the show as he put up a monstrous 31 point triple double with 10 assists and 11 rebounds. But arguably the biggest surprise was how well the supporting cast performed.

Despite Kristaps Porzingis struggling offensively, players like Jalen Brunson, Tim Hardaway Jr and Dorian Finney Smith stepped up combining for a total of 51 points for the Mavs.

The Mavericks will hope that their supporting cast can maintain this fabulous form and a player like Porzingis could step up for the upcoming game.

Predictions

The Clippers will certainly be disappointed with themselves with their latest defeat against the Mavericks. While the Mavs might have stolen Game 1, the Clippers will be determined to make a comeback. Given that they have a deep roster and a plethora of good shooters, the Clippers surely have an edge in the match-up.

LA Clippers’ injury updates and predicted lineup

The Clippers have a rather fit squad available for their second game against the Mavericks. Given that they have the home court advantage, the Clippers will be determined to level this series.

Can Kawhi Leonard and Paul George contain Luka Doncic and win their second game?

LA Clippers' Kawhi Leonard vs Toronto Raptors
May 4, 2021; Los Angeles, California, USA; LA Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (2) drives to the basket between Toronto Raptors guard Fred VanVleet (left) and forward Stanley Johnson (5) during the third quarter at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports

Probable Lineup

Patrick Beverley (G)

Paul George (G)

Kawhi Leonard (G)

Marcus Morris Sr. (F)

Ivica Zubac (C)

Dallas Mavericks: Injury updates and expected lineup

The Mavericks might miss two key players against the Clippers. JJ Reddick is sidelined with a heel injury and forward Maxi Kleber is questionable from the roster due to an Achilles issue.

May 22, 2021; Los Angeles, California, USA; Dallas Mavericks guard Josh Richardson (0) hangs in the air as he passes off top a teammate as LA Clippers guard Paul George (13) defends in the second quarter of game one in the first round of the 2021 NBA Playoffs at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports

Given that the Mavs have gotten off to the perfect start, they will be determined to continue their incredible form against the Clippers and lead the series 2-0.

Predicted Lineup

Luka Doncic (G)

Josh Richardson (G)

Dorian Finney Smith (G)

Maxi Kleber (F)

Kristaps Porzingis (C)

Who will win between the Dallas Mavericks and the LA Clippers? Let us know in the comments below.

The post Will Kawhi Leonard Play Tonight? LA Clippers vs Dallas Mavericks Game 2: Prediction, Injuries, & Lineups appeared first on EssentiallySports.