Clippers Falter Late as Mavericks Take Control in the Final Minutes
The Los Angeles Clippers dropped a hard-fought battle at home, falling 114 to 110 to the Dallas Mavericks in a game that remained tight from start to finish. Los Angeles built early momentum and matched Dallas possession for possession through most of the night, yet the team struggled to execute in the final minutes. The fourth quarter became the turning point, since the Clippers’ offense slowed while the Mavericks capitalized on a handful of defensive breakdowns. It was a game L.A. had every opportunity to win, which made the loss even more frustrating for a team trying to build consistency.
Kawhi Leonard carried the Clippers with a composed and forceful performance, finishing with 30 points while controlling the tempo whenever he had the ball. He attacked mismatches, generated pressure on the Dallas defense, and provided steady leadership throughout the night. Leonard also made key plays on the glass, helping the Clippers hold their own in a physical matchup. Even with his strong outing, the Clippers failed to build the cushion they needed, leaving the door open for Dallas to surge late.
James Harden played an equally impactful role with a double-double, putting up 29 points while leading the team in assists with 11. His ability to create opportunities for teammates kept the offense moving, especially during moments when the Mavericks tightened their coverage on Leonard. Harden also contributed on the boards and set the tone with his playmaking, pushing the pace and keeping the Clippers aggressive. As the fourth quarter unfolded, the team’s ball movement slowed, and several empty possessions prevented them from reclaiming control.
John Collins added 21 points and provided consistent interior scoring, giving the Clippers a reliable option around the rim. Ivica Zubac delivered a strong double-double performance, battling for rebounds and finishing plays in the paint. The starters were productive across the board, although the bench offered little scoring support, placing nearly the entire offensive load on the first unit. With only scattered contributions from the reserves, the Clippers had limited flexibility as the game tightened.
Dallas sealed the win behind a breakout 35-point performance from Cooper Flagg, who repeatedly made timely plays and found ways to exploit defensive gaps. His energy and shot-making shifted the momentum during a critical stretch in the second half, and the Clippers never fully recovered. Los Angeles fought to stay within striking distance, although crucial late-game stops remained out of reach. Flagg’s emergence as a late-game closer further underscored how quickly he’s becoming a reliable focal point for the Mavericks’ offense.
The defeat highlights the Clippers’ ongoing challenge to close out tight games against quality opponents. Strong outings from Leonard, Harden, Collins, and Zubac showed the team’s potential, although the lack of bench production and late-game execution proved costly. The Clippers remain competitive, although performances like this one emphasize the need for sharper finishes as the season moves forward. Until the team develops more consistency in high-pressure moments, their ability to compete with the West’s elite will remain limited.
