Clippers Ease Past Suns, Mavericks Defeat Hornets
In the final stretch of the NBA regular season, two teams secured their spots in the playoffs in the fiercely competitive Western Conference. The Los Angeles Clippers defeated the Phoenix Suns 105-92, while the Dallas Mavericks triumphed over the Charlotte Hornets with a score of 130-104. Following the Denver Nuggets, Oklahoma City Thunder, and Minnesota Timberwolves, these teams clinched their playoff berths, leaving only one remaining spot, expected to be contested among the New Orleans Pelicans, Phoenix Suns, and Sacramento Kings.
Doncic Sets Franchise Record
The Mavericks dominated from the start, outscoring the Hornets 36-18 in the first quarter and establishing a commanding 22-point lead by halftime. The game’s outcome was virtually decided early, turning the second half into garbage time. Luka Doncic led the charge with an outstanding performance, sinking five three-pointers in the first quarter alone and finishing with a total of eight threes. He recorded 30 points, 12 rebounds, and 10 assists, achieving his 21st triple-double of the season and 77th of his career, tying James Harden for eighth all-time. Additionally, Doncic surpassed Rolando Blackman’s franchise record of 2,330 points in a single season, ending the game with 2,341 points.
Significance of Records
“These records mean a lot to me,” said Doncic. “The Mavericks selected me in the draft, so I’m happy to still be with this team.”
Mavericks head coach Rick Carlisle commented, “He’s rewriting Mavericks and NBA records. Surpassing Blackman is incredible for him because Blackman is a legendary figure for the Mavericks. It also shows Doncic’s growth year by year and his terrifying potential for the future.”
Hornets coach Steve Clifford expressed his admiration, stating, “Doncic played exceptionally well, but we didn’t perform up to our standard. The game was decided by halftime.”
Westbrook’s Triple-Double Leads Clippers
Despite missing Kawhi Leonard and James Harden, the Clippers dominated the Suns from the beginning, leading 35-4 after the first quarter and extending their lead to as much as 35 points by halftime. Russell Westbrook, known as the “Ninja Turtle,” notched his first triple-double of the season and the 199th of his career, finishing with 16 points, 15 rebounds, and 15 assists.
Clippers head coach Tyronn Lue emphasized, “We had a strong desire to win, and we executed flawlessly on both offense and defense. This victory is crucial, especially against a talented team like the Suns.” (Betso88)