Clippers’ Big Three Falter: Combining for Mere 28 Points
In the pivotal Game 5 of the series, the Los Angeles Clippers faced a daunting challenge without Kawhi Leonard. However, the remaining trio of stars delivered a disappointing performance, managing to score only 28 points collectively. Their lackluster display contributed to a crushing 123-93 defeat against the Mavericks, squandering the opportunity to take control of the series at home. With a 2-3 deficit, the Clippers now face a must-win situation on the road in Dallas.
Leonard’s Absence and Clippers’ Struggles
In Leonard’s absence, the Clippers heavily relied on James Harden and Paul George to carry the offensive load. However, both players failed to deliver in Game 5. George, who scored only 7 points on 2-of-6 shooting in the first half, improved slightly in the second half but finished with just 15 points on 4-of-13 shooting overall. Meanwhile, Harden, who had been shooting 54.1% from the field and averaging 26 points per game in the series, had an off night, scoring just 7 points on 2-of-12 shooting in 33 minutes of play.
Russell Westbrook, who came off the bench, also struggled, scoring just 6 points on 2-of-11 shooting, including 0-of-3 from beyond the arc. Collectively, the Clippers’ trio of stars managed to convert only 8 of their 36 field goal attempts, a stark contrast to Luka Doncic’s dominant performance for the Mavericks.
Clippers’ Historic Futility: Big Three’s Poor Shooting Display
The Clippers’ trio of Harden, George, and Westbrook, known as the “Big Three,” suffered a historic shooting night in Game 5. Despite their combined nine All-Star appearances, each player failed to convert more than one-third of their field goal attempts. Harden, a 10-time All-Star, George, and Westbrook, both 9-time All-Stars, struggled to find their rhythm, resulting in an embarrassing performance for the Clippers.
Post-game Reactions: George’s Assessment and Harden’s Abrupt Exit
Following the disappointing defeat, Paul George reflected on the game, acknowledging missed opportunities and his own subpar performance. Meanwhile, James Harden, when asked by reporters if he would attend the post-game press conference, simply responded with a curt “no” before leaving the arena, leaving questions unanswered about the Clippers’ future in the series. (JILIEVO)
