Golden State Warriors reached the Finals for the sixth time in the previous eight seasons as they thrashed Dallas Mavericks in Game 5 of the Western Conference Finals.
Klay Thompson was the leading points scorer for the Warriors with 32 points. On the other side, Luka Doncic slammed 28 points to become the highest points scorer for Dallas. Dallas’ defence was poor to begin the game, providing easy threes and rim shots as the Warriors jumped out to a 14-5 lead. The Dallas clawed their way back into the game, drawing within two points twice, but Luka Doncic and the rest of the club suffered at the border, with the refs allowing both teams to compete aggressively. In the third quarter, Luka Doncc could reach only 2 of 10 from the field, and the Mavericks were handed a 28-23 after twelve minutes of game time.
Golden State Warriors were overtaking Dallas as the game progressed and gradually pushed their lead. On a Klay Thompson three, the Warriors extended their advantage to 13, pushing Dallas to take a timeout. Golden State continued attacking as Doncic, Jalen Brunson, and Spencer Dinwiddie were unable to score in the paint, and the Warriors built a 21-point advantage. Because of Luka Doncic’s frustration with fewer penalties, the Warriors scored in the closing moments. The Dallas headed into the halftime break down 69-52, thanks to Spencer’s late threes.
The game made a quick turnaround and got out of hand for Dallas in the third quarter. The Warriors replied quickly, and the Dallas Mavericks, who went small were unable to guard them. The Warriors dominated the Mavericks, 120-110.
Our thoughts about the game and what helped the Warriors to take over the resilient Mavericks in a competitive game:
- The variety of players and a combination of talented players propelled the Warriors to take over the side being led by players like Luka Doncic. Luka Doncic is a prominent contender to lead his side against big teams, but the way the Warriors handled them is notable.
- Mavericks’ hopes to finish the game on a winning note were dashed by defensive rebounds. Golden State performed confidently in the paint to outscore the Mavericks and take a sufficient lead.
- Luka Doncic’s third-quarter comeback was a brave attempt, but his displeasure with no-calls at the rim in the first half weakened him. Although Doncic cannot govern the officials, he can manage how he responds to problems, which is something we believe he can regulate.
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