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Finally, the Los Angeles Clippers came alive in Game 3, winning an important matchup to avoid going down 3-0. Now, just one game back, LA hopes to even up the series on Sunday in Clippers-Mavericks Game 4. Luka Doncic and the Dallas Mavericks will do everything they can to take a commanding 3-1 lead, which should make for a late evening thriller.
The Clippers' role players stepped up big time in the last game, providing Los Angeles the extra push that's been missing the first two games. Kawhi Leonard and Paul George dropped 65 points together and the rest of the team did the rest. If the Clippers can play like that, they can beat anybody.
The Mavericks didn't go down without a fight, as Doncic recorded 44 points, 9 rebounds, and 9 assists. However, the rest of the team disappeared, making Dallas a one-man show. Kristaps Porzingis was nowhere to be seen, as he only scored 9 points in Game 3. Additionally, the extra help Luka has gotten in this series vanished, as Tim Hardaway Jr. ended with just 12 points.
Game 4 should be an exhilarating matchup, as both teams fight to progress to the next round. With that said, here are three bold predictions for the Clippers-Mavericks Game 4 playoff game.
Luka drops 50+
With Luka's supporting cast pulling a no-show in Game 3, Doncic might have to do it all on Sunday night. If that's the case, the Mavericks are in a whirlwind of trouble, as he needs his teammates to play well. If they don't, we very well could see Luka Doncic put up 50+ points on Sunday night.
The Clippers made a defensive adjustment that seemed to work. With Luka's teammates struggling, Doncic is going to have to do everything himself. Even with some of the best perimeter defenders in the league, Doncic has still put on a show. There is nothing Los Angeles can do to slow him down.
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Clippers win the rebound battle
The Clippers edged the Mavericks 39-33 in rebounding during Game 3, which helped them secure more possessions. However, it isn't that big of a differential. With everything on the line and Los Angeles hoping to avoid going down 3-1 in the series, look for the Clippers to get ultra-aggressive in Game 4.
Controlling the boards gives the Clippers a massive advantage throughout the game. It gives Los Angeles more time with the ball while preventing Dallas from maintaining possession. Dominating the glass also makes it easier for the Clippers to run their style of offense and control most of the game.
Clippers-Mavericks Game 4 results in a 2-2 series
Between Leonard and Geroge's leadership, the supporting cast elevating their game, and controlling the boards, the Los Angeles Clippers should be able to even up the series. It's a tough task, as they're on the road and will have to outperform the Mavericks in enemy territory. However, the Clippers have the playoff experience to pull it off.
By evening up the series, the Clippers would regain control. Game 5 will be back in Los Angeles where the Clippers could potentially take a 3-2 lead on their home court. Before the Clippers can get ahead of themselves, they must focus on Game 4 and follow through with their game plan.
