URGENT UPDATE: The Los Angeles Clippers suffered a heartbreaking 114-110 loss to the Dallas Mavericks on December 2, 2023, extending their losing streak to four games. Despite strong performances from Kawhi Leonard and James Harden, the Clippers could not overcome the Mavericks, who were missing five key players, including Anthony Davis.
The game at the Intuit Dome saw the Mavericks rally back after trailing by seven points at halftime. Rookie sensation Cooper Flagg scored a game-high 35 points, sealing the victory with crucial free throws in the final moments. Flagg’s clutch performance included two free throws with 35 seconds remaining, followed by a pair from Klay Thompson to push the Mavericks ahead 110-105.
Leonard led the Clippers with 30 points, eight rebounds, and three assists, while Harden tallied 29 points, eight rebounds, and 11 assists. However, the Clippers’ struggles were evident as they turned the ball over 18 times compared to the Mavericks’ nine, allowing Dallas to capitalize on their mistakes.
The Mavericks, now 6-15, found their rhythm in the second half after a dismal first half in which they made just two 3-pointers. They managed to tie the game at 83-83 heading into the final quarter, demonstrating resilience against a Clippers team that has lost 12 of their last 13 games.
Clippers’ head coach Tyronn Lue expressed frustration with his team’s performance, emphasizing the impact of injuries on their current slump. “It starts with everybody… you have to be able to look yourself in the mirror and see what you can bring better to the team,” Lue stated.
The Clippers were already without two starters, Bradley Beal and Derrick Jones Jr., and had just welcomed back Leonard after a lengthy injury absence. Lue acknowledged that the team needs to find a way to overcome these challenges, stating, “I’m just really, I guess, pissed off more than frustrated because it happens every year.”
With their playoff hopes dwindling, the Clippers must regroup quickly as they face mounting pressure to turn their season around. As the team heads into their next games, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if they can break free from this troubling trend.
The Mavericks’ victory is a much-needed boost as they look to build momentum in a challenging season. With Flagg emerging as a key player, Dallas fans have reason to celebrate amid a rough start.
Stay tuned for updates on the Clippers as they seek to end their losing streak and get back on track in the coming days.
