Dallas Mavericks vs Los Angeles Clippers prediction for Saturday’s game three of the NBA playoffs at American Airlines Center in Dallas. After winning both games in Los Angeles, the Mavericks host the Clippers for the coming two games in Dallas. Read on for our free prediction and betting tips.
Dallas Mavericks in the driving seat after two wins
The Dallas Mavericks were off to a flying start in the NBA first-round winning their two matches at the Staples Center. Luka Doncic has been the focal point of this Mavericks side. The Slovenian is averaging 35 points in the playoffs accompanied by 8.5 rebounds and nine assists. But Doncic’s teammates are also having a superb series.
Tim Hardaway Jr. scored 21 and 28 points in both games. He has been very efficient from the arc shooting scoring 11 three-pointers in the two games combined with an average of 54%. Surely the Clippers will work to find a way to stop Doncic, consequently, it is important for coach Rick Carlisle’s other players to have an effective offensive contribution if they want to win this series.
Los Angeles Clippers need to improve their defense
The LA Clippers have an uphill battle in their hands after losing both matches at home and thus losing the home-court advantage they had after finishing the regular season in fourth place. Despite Kawhi Leonard’s 26 and 41 points in the two games, the Clippers are way behind their season average and the best in the NBA of 41.1% from the arc, with just 33% in the playoffs.
Coach Tyronn Lue’s shooters need to find their form quickly. Paul George made just one of seven shots in the first game and two of eight shots in the second game. In addition, coach Lue must find a way to stop Luka Doncic who has been tearing the Clippers’ defense apart in the first two games. The Clippers beat the Mavericks just once in five meetings this season and that was in Dallas.
Key Stats
Dallas Mavericks vs Los Angeles Clippers Prediction
This series can turn into a very interesting one if the Clippers bounce back and win the third game in Dallas. Just 6% of teams in playoff history who were down by 2-0 went on to win the series. We can’t count out the Clippers though. Tyronn Lue’s team haven’t had their last say yet.
The Mavericks are looking invincible at this crucial stage of the season and it will need defensive heroics for the Clippers to stop them. We think Paul George and co will find their offensive form in this series and that could be in the next game.
We predict a more defensive game in game three especially from the Clippers as that is their only way to get back in the series. We will back a Clippers win for this one.
Dallas Mavericks vs Los Angeles Clippers Betting Tips
Moneyline LA Clippers 1.74 at bet365
Under 225.5 Points 1.50 at bet365