Clippers Go Maverick

The Los Angeles Clippers & Dallas Mavericks have one of the great rivalries in basketball. As Reggie Jackson put it so eloquently in the post-match interview; it is a form of 'healthy rivalry' that both teams always seem to bring out the best in each other. Witness their fantastical 7-game NBA Playoff First Round series last season; when no team was able to hold home court until the final game; as proof of evidence.

Well this game actually started off as a slow-burner; with both teams struggling to put points on the board. However; as we entered the second half; it was getting clear that both teams were shaking off the early tip-off time malaise; as punctuated by Paul George's off-hand rim-rocking slam that was an early contender for Dunk Of The Season.

In fact; the Clippers' defense was so good; that at one point midway through the third & fourth quarters; I saw for he first time that enigma this season; when a team just struggles to score so badly that they don't really know what to do. It was just beautiful to watch.

Credit to the Mavericks though. Even without their superstar Luka Doncic; they were still hangin' tough until the closing stages; but the turning point came when the referees overturned a call from Jalen Brunson as he elbowed into Terance Mann. Witness next an unbelievable circus shot from Reggie Jackson; and the game was all but over.

Best part is: we get to do it all over again next Tuesday We can't wait.