Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, two of the most offensively gifted players in the NBA, have often been criticized for their defensive deficiencies. However, in the Dallas Mavericks’ crucial Game 2 win over the Los Angeles Clippers, both stars showcased significant improvements on that end of the floor.
In previous playoff matchups between the Mavericks and Clippers, Doncic had been relentlessly targeted on defense, often resulting in easy shots or trips to the free-throw line for his opponents. But in Game 2, Doncic displayed a marked improvement in his defensive intensity and technique. The Clippers’ game plan was to force Doncic to defend, but he responded by making it difficult for them to get easy looks.
Doncic defended more shots than any other Mavericks player in Game 2. Despite being matched up against the Clippers’ star trio of Kawhi Leonard, Paul George, and Marcus Morris Sr., Doncic held them to a combined 6-of-24 shooting (25%) from the field when he was the primary defender. He also forced Leonard into a difficult shot attempt late in the fourth quarter, resulting in an airball and a key rebound for the Mavericks.
Doncic’s defensive improvement was not limited to individual plays. He showed a better understanding of defensive positioning and rotations, helping the Mavericks to limit the Clippers’ scoring opportunities in the paint.
Irving also made a significant impact on defense. Despite his smaller stature, Irving bothered James Harden when he guarded him, deflecting passes, saving loose balls, and registering three steals. On two of those steals, he perfectly read the Clippers’ passing lanes and forced turnovers.
The Mavericks’ improved defensive effort was evident throughout the game. They played with more physicality than in Game 1, not allowing the Clippers any easy looks in the paint. This collective effort was inspired by the leadership of Doncic and Irving, who set the tone with their commitment to defense.
“When your two star players are committed on defense, it spreads to everyone else,” said Mavericks coach Jason Kidd. “They understand the responsibility of their leader, and when he’s going to play defense and participate, they have to be able to do the same thing.”
Doncic and Irving’s defensive performance in Game 2 was a crucial factor in the Mavericks’ victory. It demonstrated their willingness to embrace both ends of the floor and their determination to help the team succeed. If they can replicate this effort consistently throughout the series, the Mavericks will have a much better chance of advancing past the Clippers and making a deep playoff run.
