“We Allowed Him to Have Both”: Clippers Head Coach Admits Failing to Stop Luka Doncic

Despite an exemplary night by Luka Doncic, Mavericks lost their first playoff game to Kawhi Leonard and Clippers. The 21-year old set an NBA record of the first-ever player to score 42 points in his postseason debut. He surpassed the greats such as Kareen Abdul-Jabbar and Derrick Rose to achieve this feat yesterday.

Luka bagged 42 points, 7 rebounds, 9 assists, and 3 steals against Clippers but lost the match 110-118 by the end. The ejection of Kristaps Porzingis after his second technical foul in the third quarter became the highlight downfall point for Dallas. He scored 14 points in the 20 minutes he got on the court.

Doc Rivers is quite impressed with Luka Doncic

Mavericks were tough not he Clippers with Luka making tremendous plays on the court. His debut performance proved to be insane from every aspect. Clippers coach, Doc Rivers also couldn’t refrain from appreciating the young star post the match. He was taken aback by Luka’s excellence and respected his game throughout.

When asked about Doncic’s splendid NBA record, Rivers had immense to add to it.

“He’s amazing. I thought we guarded him pretty well, forced him into a lot of tough shots, forced him into 11 turnovers. I thought what we did poorly. And what shows his greatness, is every time we made a mistake on the weak side, he found that guy and that guy made a shot.” Rivers told the reporters.

“I didn’t mind his basket attacks, I didn’t mind his threes. I mind our help so he could get the assists. I’ll give up the points to him, I just don’t want to give up the points and the assists. I thought we allowed him to have both tonight.”

Rivers surely admit they couldn’t stop the strong force of Luka Doncic out there. He didn’t mind his splendid display of talent, rather Clippers’ leeway was a matter of concern.

What’s next for Clippers-Mavericks?

Luka is averaging a massive 28.8 points, 9.4 rebounds, and 8.8 assists this season. But last night wasn’t the youngsters for sure. The Clippers grabbed the lead after Kristap’s exit which worked quite well for them. Kawhi Leonard added 29 points and 12 rebounds to their Game 1 victory. Paul George scored 27 points and Marcus Morris had 19 for the Clippers.

It was definitely a terrific match and how the playoff run continues between the two strong lineups will be interesting going forward.

Mavericks and Clippers will meet in their next matchup on 19th August.