In a resilient display, Luka Doncic and the shorthanded Dallas Mavericks nearly staged a comeback from a 22-point deficit but ultimately succumbed to a 120-111 loss against the Los Angeles Clippers at the American Airlines Center on Wednesday. The Mavericks now hold a 16-11 overall record, while the Clippers improve to 17-10.

Both teams grappled with the absence of key players, with All-Stars Kyrie Irving (right heel contusion) and Paul George (illness) headlining the list of sidelined athletes. The Mavericks were without Dereck Lively II (left ankle sprain), Josh Green (right elbow sprain), and Maxi Kleber (right small toe dislocation).

Early in the game, the Clippers adopted a defensive strategy of switching and loading the gaps instead of blitzing ball screens to counter Doncic’s playmaking. Despite this, the Mavericks initiated a run, focusing on pushing the pace after turnovers and missed shots.

Doncic, a constant target of the Clippers’ aggressive defense, played a pivotal role during the Mavericks’ surge. While the Clippers doubled him with Dwight Powell on the floor, the Mavs’ smaller personnel struggled defensively. Dallas managed to close the third quarter trailing 85-83, showcasing their resilience with a small-ball lineup.

Entering the fourth quarter, the Clippers regained momentum as the Mavs faced challenges defending the paint. However, Dallas responded with creative plays, utilizing Dante Exum as a screener to attack out of the short roll. Jaden Hardy’s go-ahead 3-pointer propelled the Mavericks to a 98-97 lead, prompting a timeout from the Clippers.

Despite a defensive surge from the Mavericks, the Clippers, led by James Harden and Kawhi Leonard, exchanged leads and tied scores. Leonard’s impactful plays, including an and-one for Norman Powell and a dunk, propelled the Clippers to a 116-110 lead with 1:47 remaining.