Dallas MavericksOpen full analysisVSLos Angeles ClippersOpen full analysis

The Los Angeles Clippers defeated the Dallas Mavericks 116–103 on April 7 at Intuit Dome, controlling the matchup with superior shooting and defensive execution. Kawhi Leonard led the way with 34 points, while Darius Garland added 22 in a balanced offensive attack. The Clippers shot 44.6 percent from the field and connected on 14 three-pointers, holding Dallas to just 35 percent shooting and 6 made threes. Los Angeles dominated the glass and perimeter game, outrebounding Dallas 56–54 while forcing 8 turnovers against 14 of their own. A decisive third quarter—24 points for the Clippers against Dallas's 29—set the tone, but the fourth quarter sealed it, with LA outscoring the Mavericks 27–19. Collin Flagg (25 points) and Marvin Bagley III (21 points) kept Dallas competitive early, but the Clippers' defensive rating of 97.8 held firm when it mattered. The game fell well short of the Vegas total of 235.5, suggesting a defensive-minded affair that favored the home team's depth and execution. This victory reinforces LA's position as a Western Conference contender heading into the final stretch.