5 takeaways: 'Closeout Kyrie' ousts Clippers'Closeout Kyrie' arrives in the 2nd half, the Mavs' big men wreak havoc again and the Clippers' season ends with a whimper.
Kyrie has 'never guarded' like he's guarding nowKyrie Irving's defense has been emblematic of the Mavericks' commitment on both ends, helping them to advance.
Game Recap: Mavericks 114, Clippers 101Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving combine for 58 points, and the Mavericks use 2nd-half surge to close out the Clippers in Game 6.
Mavs 'snatched Clippers' heart.' What now, LA?With the Clippers eliminated in the first round for a second straight season, have injury concerns shifted toward age and fit?
Mavs' deadline deals created physical identityThe Mavs found offensive rhythm around Luka early and Kyrie late, but trade pickups Daniel Gafford and P.J. Washington have been key.
Irving, Doncic lead Mavericks to West semisKyrie Irving scores 28 of his 30 points in the 2nd half -- including 15 in the 4th quarter -- and improves his record in closeout games to 13-0.
Clippers' Leonard out for Game 6 vs. MavsLA's standout forward will miss his 3rd straight game as the Clippers try to extend the series against the Mavs.
5 takeaways: Mavs take control in Game 5Luka Doncic grinds through a dominant performance, while Dallas' defense stifles LA to take a 3-2 series lead.
Clippers need George, Harden to bounce backIf LA hopes to stave off elimination and force a Game 7, it needs Paul George and James Harden to deliver big performances.
Mavs are at their best when Luka gets others involvedIn Dallas' Game 5 victory, Luka Doncic was aggressive and decisive, which helps get others engaged throughout the game.
Mavs seem to be 'evolving' at right timeWith Luka and Kyrie getting plenty of help from the role players, Dallas now has a chance to close out the series at home.
Game Recap: Mavericks 123, Clippers 93Luka Doncic pours in 35 points and Dallas holds Paul George and James Harden to a combined 22 points to secure a 3-2 series lead.
Luka after dominant Game 5 win: 'Job is not done'Luka Doncic talks about setting the tone early and getting defensive in a 123-93 Game 5 win over the Clippers to take a 3-2 lead.
How 'Throwback James' Harden held off MavsJames Harden delivers a vintage performance to keep the Clippers ahead of the Mavericks despite a furious 4th-quarter rally.
5 takeaways: Clippers foil Mavs' epic comeback bidJames Harden steps up, Dallas can't quite catch up and things are looking up for LA with the series now tied at 2-2.
NBA Mailbag: Biggest playoff surprise so far?20-year NBA veteran Jamal Crawford answers 20+ questions on the first round, postseason energy, and his favorite all-time matchups.
Are Clippers playing better without Kawhi?Ernie, Charles, Kenny & Shaq get into a spirited debate on the effectiveness of Kawhi Leonard in the Clippers' first-round series.
Game Recap: Clippers 116, Mavericks 111Paul George and James Harden score 33 points each as LA holds off a furious rally in Dallas to even the series 2-2.