Mavs’ Luka Doncic Feels He’s ‘Letting Down’ Kyrie Irving Against Clippers

In a dramatic Game 4 on Sunday, Kyrie Irving‘s scoring explosion nearly led the Dallas Mavericks to a stunning comeback from a 31-point deficit. However, despite Irving’s heroics, the Los Angeles Clippers managed to secure a 116-111 victory, evening the first-round NBA playoff series 2-2.

Irving, who did not score until the Clippers had built a substantial lead, erupted for all 40 of his points after the midway point of the second quarter. His remarkable performance included an acrobatic layup over three defenders, giving Dallas the lead with just over two minutes left.

Conversely, Luka Doncic, while still producing a triple-double with 29 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists, did not meet his usual high standards.

Struggling with soreness in his right knee and listed as questionable before the game, Doncic shot only 10 of 24 from the field and made just one of his eight three-point attempts. His defensive efforts were notably less effective, a point of frustration for the young star.

Reflecting on his performance, Doncic took responsibility for not sufficiently supporting Irving. “I just got to help him more,” Doncic said. “I feel like I’m letting him down, so I got to be there. I got to help him more. He’s given everything that he has, and he’s been amazing for us the whole series.”

Throughout the series, Irving has averaged 28.8 points with impressive shooting accuracy, while Doncic has struggled, particularly with his long-range shooting. Doncic’s difficulties were compounded by knee issues, which he acknowledged affected his movement and shot creation.

Despite the physical challenges, Doncic was determined not to use his condition as an excuse.

“It’s hurting, obviously, but it shouldn’t be an excuse, man,” Doncic said, emphasizing his need to perform better.

The Mavericks coach, Jason Kidd, noted the significant impact when Doncic was off the court, with the team being outscored by 15 points during those brief periods.

“I thought he did everything he could,” Kidd remarked about Doncic’s effort.

Doncic has averaged 29.0 points, 9.8 rebounds, and 8.5 assists in four postseason games against the Clippers in this year’s series. However, he’s shooting 38.6% from the field and 26.5% from beyond the arc while turning it over 3.8 times per game.

The game also highlighted a strategic shift by the Mavericks at halftime, focusing on preventing Clippers stars James Harden and Paul George from taking three-point shots. This adjustment saw Harden hitting crucial two-point floaters down the stretch, a deviation from his weaker regular-season performance in that area.

As the series shifts back to Los Angeles for Game 5, both Irving and Doncic are poised to refine their strategies. With the mental and physical demands of the playoffs weighing heavily, the Mavericks look to regroup and capitalize on their next opportunity to take the lead in the series.