Home/NBA

USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

The Dallas Mavericks are playing the LA Clippers in their first game of the post-season. Both the teams have built a rivalry in the past few seasons and given that this is a repeat of the last year’s bubble playoffs, both the teams are dialled in.

While the Clippers are favorites with Kawhi Leonard and Paul George on the floor, the Mavs cannot be counted out because of the exceptional quality of their young superstar Luka Doncic and center Kristaps Porzingis.

‘Pandemic P’ trends during the Mavericks and LA Clippers playoff series

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

The first game between the Mavs and the Clippers is off to a flier as Dallas leads the Clippers 82-78. While Luka Doncic has stood out for the Mavs, Kawhi Leonard has stepped up to the plate scoring 23 points.

But the same cannot be said for Paul George. PG13 hasn’t been able to support Kawhi in the offensive end scoring only 13 points shooting 2 of 9 from the floor. Given his rather streaky form and how he has started his post-season, fans aren’t ready to spare George.

As a result, Pandemic P is already trending on social media and fans are seemingly frustrated with George. The 30-year-old had arguably had one of the most forgettable series’ against the Nuggets and sounded pretty confident that he could step up this season.

It is too early to predict the numbers that Paul might end up averaging in the series, but if he doesn’t step up, he might solidify his position as a choke artist.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Luka Doncic off to a great start

While the likes of Paul George and Kristaps Porzingis have struggled, Luka has been on an absolute tear in this matchup. The Slovenian has scored a total of whooping 27 points already with 6 rebounds and assists.

USA Today via Reuters

Given how dependent his team is on him excelling right now, the Slovenian is putting up fantastic numbers and might be a difference maker in determining the result of the game.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

The Clippers need to lock down in defense while Paul George needs to step up as soon as possible. Can George make a comeback in the rest of the match? Who will win this series, Dallas Mavericks or LA Clippers? Let us know in the comments section down below.