As time passes, the intense competition in the East starkly contrasts with the largely one-sided situation in the West. The Pelicans and the Suns didn’t win a single game combined; they were both swept out of contention. The Lakers didn’t fare much better, as their 1-4 series loss was far from impressive. However, the Mavericks vs. Clippers series has undoubtedly become the most thrilling first-round matchup in the West, tied at 2-2. Yet, the intensity of this matchup is closely tied to the Clippers’ injuries.
Before the pivotal showdown, the Clippers officially released their injury report, confirming that their star forward, Leonard, would be sidelined for the game. Clippers head coach Tyronn Lue also confirmed this in interviews. Clearly, Leonard is the X-factor in this series. Looking at the current series score, it’s evident that if both teams were healthy, the Mavericks wouldn’t be a match for the Clippers. Leonard’s absence presents an opportunity for the Mavericks, as evidenced by the Clippers winning Games 1 and 4 without him. However, the common factor in these victories was the Clippers’ smooth offense and defense, with significant leads of around 30 points in both games. In contrast, Leonard’s presence in Games 2 and 3, which the Clippers lost, highlighted his compromised mobility due to knee inflammation, affecting both his offense and defense. It’s clear that the Clippers made a strategic decision to let Leonard rest rather than risk him playing while not fully recovered. However, the challenge of the pivotal Game 5 against the Mavericks is markedly different, as both teams are well aware of Leonard’s absence.
In the previous four games, Leonard’s status was always uncertain, leaving the Mavericks guessing whether he would play. As Harden mentioned after winning Game 1, they knew early on that Leonard wouldn’t play, allowing them to prepare thoroughly. This time, the Mavericks can prepare directly based on Leonard’s absence, focusing on Harden and George and designing tactics to limit their impact. This lack of secrecy favors the Mavericks but poses a significant disadvantage for the Clippers.
Harden’s luck seems to have run dry. During his time with the Rockets, he endured years of contention, eventually becoming a championship contender and even dismantling the Warriors’ dynasty by luring Durant away. However, issues with the Rockets’ management, including their reluctance to pay the luxury tax, led to the team’s disintegration. Harden’s subsequent stints with the Nets and the 76ers were marred by non-basketball issues. While things seemed to improve with the Clippers, postseason problems resurfaced.
It’s challenging to describe Harden’s luck. Achieving the goal of winning a championship seems increasingly elusive for him. Nonetheless, this postseason, he has earned respect with his performance. Despite Leonard’s complex injury situation and the possibility of not completing the playoffs healthy, Harden has stepped up, showing resilience and assuming leadership responsibilities. So far, he has been the undisputed leader for the Clippers in this series, delivering impressive performances and living up to expectations. He has proven himself once again.