Despite battling a sprained right knee and sore left ankle, Luka Doncic gave a gritty performance in Game 3, helping the Mavericks secure a 105-101 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder. Although Doncic managed only 22 points on a subpar 7-of-17 shooting night, he made his presence felt on the boards with 15 rebounds.
Kyrie Irving and Luka Doncic Delivers in the Clutch
Irving stepped up as Luka Doncic’s reliable co-star, scoring eight of his 22 points in the fourth quarter. With 39 seconds left, Irving drove past Jalen Williams to deliver a crucial floater over Chet Holmgren, sealing the game for Dallas. “He’s amazing,” said Doncic. “He’s doing it all on both ends.”
P.J. Washington: The Unsung Hero
P.J. Washington’s stellar play has been a revelation. He led the team with 27 points, sinking 5-of-12 from beyond the arc. “I’ve been waiting to get here my whole career, so I’m enjoying each and every second of it,” said Washington. His clutch shooting has given the Mavs an extra edge, drawing the attention of Thunder superstar Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
Luka Doncic was asked about a knee injury he might have suffered during a game: "Injury is when you can't play. When you're hurt, you can play with pain. It's in my Real Madrid DNA." pic.twitter.com/Vptqpqr0le
— Madrid Universal (@MadridUniversal) May 12, 2024
Defensive Efforts Pay Off
The Mavericks showed their physicality, controlling the paint with a 52-38 edge and outrebounding Oklahoma City 48-41. Coach Jason Kidd emphasized how recent roster changes have made Dallas a more versatile team, capable of both finesse and physical play.
Challenges Ahead
Despite struggling to maintain his regular-season offensive output, Luka Doncic continues to trust his teammates. “It’s up to us to continue to mold that greatness alongside him,” noted Kyrie Irving, recognizing the need to build around Doncic’s playmaking talents.
Looking Ahead
With Kyrie Irving closing games strong and Washington emerging as a key contributor, the Mavericks find themselves just two wins away from their second Western Conference Finals appearance in three years.
