Big Game Report #56

By Chase Bailkin

Dallas Mavericks

(20-17)

VS

Los Angeles Clippers

(25-15)

8th West

4th West

Fanduel Odds

The Clippers are getting desperate to find wins lately. They are 1-4 in their last 5, and are coming off a blowout loss to the Pelicans last night and have dropped to 4th in the West. They face a much better Mavericks team tonight in Dallas, who are 5-1 in their last 6, are fully healthy, and had an extra day of rest. Kawhi Leonard was unusually outspoken in his post game interview last night saying that his team’s play has been embarrassing, and its comments like those from a star player like Kawhi, who is usually not public with his criticisms, that make it hard not to bet on the Clippers. I think Kawhi especially will look to back up his comments and be efficient tonight, and the Clippers also remember when the Mavericks beat them by 50 on their home court earlier this year. I think the Clippers bounce back tonight and edge out the Mavs, but it won’t be without a fight. Take the Clippers -1.5, Kawhi Leonard over 25.5 points, Kawhi Leonard over 2.5 made threes, and Luka Doncic over 8.5 assists.