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Mavericks turning to secret weapon in Game 5 vs. Clippers

Originally posted on ClutchPoints | By Joey Mistretta | Last updated 5/1/24

The Dallas Mavericks need a spark for their three-point shooting. Dallas is shooting just 32.8 percent from beyond the arc through the first four games of their first round series against the Los Angeles Clippers, per StatMuse. On Tuesday after practice, Mavs head coach Jason Kidd said Dante Exum will play a “ big part” in Game 5. Perhaps Exum can help the Mavericks get back on track from three-point range.

“Looking at Exum, I think he’s going to have a big part in Game 5,” Kidd said. “Up to this point he hasn’t been up to his standards. We trust that he’s going to be really good in Game 5.”

Dante Exum’s potential impact

Dallas Mavericks guard Luka Doncic (77) celebrates after play at the end of regulation against the Houston Rockets at American Airlines Center. Andrew Dieb-USA TODAY Sports

Exum played an important role for Dallas during the regular season. He has yet to receive much postseason action, though. The Mavs guard is averaging just nine minutes per game in the playoffs so far.

Exum appeared in 55 games (17 starts) during the regular season. He averaged 7.8 points per game on 53.3 percent field goal and 49.1 percent three-point shooting. It should be noted that Exum attempted just 2.0 three-point attempts per outing.

Still, he clearly is a player who can find the bottom of the net from deep. With Tim Hardaway Jr. already being ruled out for Game 5, Exum’s presence will be pivotal for the Mavericks.

The Mavericks are also looking for a way to contain the Clippers’ three-point shooting following their long-range explosion in Game 4. Exum is a capable perimeter defender. Derrick Jones Jr. and Exum will try to help limit LA’s three-point attack.

Kyrie Irving and Luka Doncic will lead the way for Dallas. But having players such as Exum ready to go is going to be crucial.

Mavericks-Clippers Game 5

The NBA referees separate Dallas Mavericks forward P.J. Washington (25) and LA Clippers guard Russell Westbrook (0) as they exchange words during the fourth quarter during game three of the first round for the 2024 NBA playoffs at the American Airlines Center. Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Game 5 is going to be another competitive affair. It has been an exciting series thus far between two talented teams.

The No. 4 vs. No. 5 series always projects to be competitive. Sometimes it lives up to expectations, and other times it certainly does not. The Mavericks and Clippers series has been back-and-forth to say the least.

Both teams have fought hard. There has been some pushing and shoving, words exchanged, viral poses, and intense defense.

The Mavericks are hoping to take care of business on the road in Game 5 and clinch a series win at home in Game 6. Accomplishing that goal is going to be a challenge, though. This Clippers team has confidence right now. Winning Game 5 will be especially important for the Clippers since they will not want to return to Dallas for Game 6 trailing 3-2 in the series.

If the Mavs role players can perform well, Irving and Doncic will take care of the rest. There is a path to winning Game 5 on the road but it will require a complete team effort.

Game 5’s tip-off is scheduled for 10 PM EST in Los Angeles.

This article first appeared on ClutchPoints and was syndicated with permission.

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