In a pivotal Game 5 matchup against the OKC Thunder, they delivered a commanding performance, securing a 104-92 victory on the road. The win puts the Mavericks in a favorable position with a 3-2 series lead, heading into Game 6 at home on Saturday.
Luka Dončić was the standout performer of the game, delivering a masterclass performance with a triple-double of 31 points, 11 assists, and 10 rebounds. Dončić’s exceptional play was fueled by the “Luka Sucks” chants from the OKC crowd, motivating him to elevate his game when it mattered most.
LUKA DENIES SGA 😤
CLUTCH BLOCK. pic.twitter.com/Ks44tMUlIk
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) May 16, 2024
The Mavericks’ success in the series has been attributed to their solid defense, particularly their strategy of packing the paint to limit Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s driving opportunities. This defensive approach has disrupted OKC’s offense, resulting in their struggles from beyond the arc in Game 5.
Despite Gilgeous-Alexander’s 30-point effort, the Thunder lacked support from their shooters, with players like Chet Holmgren, Jalen Williams, and Lu Dort unable to make significant contributions.
On the other hand, the Mavericks saw notable performances from role players like Derrick Jones Jr. and Kyrie Irving, who stepped up with offensive contributions to complement Doncic’s stellar performance.
Looking ahead to Game 6, the Thunder will need to improve their shooting efficiency to stay competitive and avoid elimination. Meanwhile, the Mavericks aim to capitalize on their momentum and close out the series on their home court, advancing to the next round of the playoffs.
