The Dallas Mavericks are back on their home turf at the American Airlines Center tonight, ready to face off against the Los Angeles Clippers in their second NBA Cup showdown of the season. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. CST. The Mavericks are hoping to capitalize on their improved shooting performance from Wednesday's game, while also addressing those pesky fourth-quarter turnovers that keep tripping them up.
After a 123-114 loss to the Phoenix Suns, Dallas comes into the game with a 3-9 record. Despite the loss, there were glimmers of hope in the Suns game. The Mavericks managed a solid 13-of-20 shooting performance in the fourth quarter, with Klay Thompson finding his rhythm from beyond the arc. Thompson led the charge with 19 points, sinking six three-pointers out of 16 attempts, and playing a total of 31 minutes. His performance created the much-needed spacing that fueled a late comeback attempt.
Thompson credited the home crowd for the energy that powered their fourth-quarter surge. "The energy was great," Thompson said. "When we cut it to four points, I thought our fans did a tremendous job giving us a boost. We have to give them something to cheer for on a nightly basis. We’re going to put our best foot forward."
However, turnovers ultimately decided the game. Dallas coughed up the ball 21 times, including six crucial turnovers in the fourth quarter, which resulted in 31 points for Phoenix. Cooper Flagg, who contributed 16 points, six rebounds, six assists, three steals, and two blocks, emphasized the impact of these mistakes on their comeback efforts.
"It’s very difficult. It’s very difficult to win games when you turn over the ball that many times," Flagg stated. "So that’s something we have to clean up for sure."
Coach Jason Kidd focused Thursday's practice session on improving late-game decision-making, an area that has been a consistent problem for Dallas. Can they fix it in time for the Clippers?
Key Matchups to Watch
Keep an eye on the battle in the paint. How will Dallas contain the Clippers' big men? Will Dereck Lively II's expected return give the Mavericks the boost they need? And can the Mavericks limit those turnovers and capitalize on their improved shooting?
Prediction
This promises to be a closely contested game. If Dallas can minimize turnovers and maintain their shooting rhythm, they have a chance to pull off a win against the Clippers. However, the Clippers are a tough opponent, and the Mavericks will need to bring their A-game to secure a victory.