Los Angeles Clippers at Dallas Mavericks Game 3 Betting Preview

The LA Clippers head to Dallas for Game 3 of their first-round playoff series in desperate need of a win. The Mavericks have taken the first two games of this series and are looking to take complete control of the series.

LA came into the playoffs as the number three overall seed in the Western Conference, but they simply haven’t played like it. The Clippers have a recent history of falling short in the postseason, but this would be a pretty massive collapse.

Dallas had an interesting regular season, but they came into the playoffs with some momentum as the number six seed. The Mavericks were ousted by the Clippers a season ago, but they have been in control of the first two games.

It is the LA Clippers that are 2.5-point favorites over the Dallas Mavericks on Friday night. 

LA Must Get Stops

The LA Clippers were one of the best defensive teams in the league during the regular season, but they have struggled so far in these playoffs. LA has allowed at least 113 points in each of the two games, and stopping Luka Doncic is priority number one.

The Clippers were able to break out and score 121 points in Game 2 of the series, and offense usually isn’t a problem. Paul George and Kawhi Leonard continue to play well, but the two superstars are going to need some help.

Dallas wants to play extremely fast, but that’s not a style that LA enjoys. Look for the Clippers and head coach Ty Lue to come up with a game plan to slow down and frustrate Dallas.

Doncic Delivering For Mavs

Luka Doncic has transformed into one of the faces of the NBA, and he has delivered so far in these playoffs. Doncic is averaging 35 points per game so far in this series, and he has also been putting up near triple-double numbers.

The Mavericks are shooting 50% from the three-point line in this series, and that’s just a number that won’t last. Dallas is going to have to find a way to get some more scoring from the inside if they want to stay on top. 

Dallas will give up some points, and that could ultimately let the Clippers back in the series. The Mavericks must find a way to get stops on defense if they want to take a commanding 3-0 series lead. 

Clippers Get Some Revenge

This is a crucial game in this best-of-seven series and should be the most competitive. Returning home will provide a boost for the Mavericks, but the Clippers know how to win on the road. 

Dallas might have won the first two games of this series, but they better be ready for a big response from the Clippers in this game. LA is going to really clamp down on the defensive end, and the Mavericks will struggle to score.

The Clippers still have plenty of work to do, but they get it started on Friday. Bet the LA Clippers -2.5 as they pick up a crucial victory in Game 3 and start to inch closer in this series. 

Keep up with your latest MLB news coverage and betting pick previews with The Dunkel Index.