In the Western Conference semifinals of the NBA playoffs, the Dallas Mavericks and Oklahoma City Thunder faced off in a pivotal Game 5 at Paycom Center. Both teams were looking to take a commanding lead in the series.
The Thunder had won Game 4 at home, with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leading the way with an impressive performance of 34 points, eight rebounds, and five assists. However, the Mavericks put up a strong fight in Dallas. P.J. Washington recorded 21 points and 12 rebounds for Dallas.
Luka Doncic had struggled in the series prior to Game 5, averaging just 22 points on 39% shooting through the first four games. However, he was determined to focus solely on basketball and leave any arguments with referees behind. Doncic altered his pregame routine to get into rhythm earlier than usual.
In the game itself, Doncic delivered a triple-double performance with 31 points, 11 assists, and 10 rebounds. Derrick Jones Jr. was the biggest beneficiary of Doncic's performance, scoring 19 points on an efficient 7-of-9 shooting.
The Mavericks regained the series lead with a decisive victory of 104-92 over the Thunder. Doncic hit a step-back 3 over Luguentz Dort from his favorite spot on the left wing in the third quarter, which proved to be a crucial moment in the game.
Despite some injuries and offensive struggles for Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, Dallas' coaching staff needed to find answers. The Mavericks had missed 11 free throws in Game 4, contributing to their narrow loss. Paycom Center provided a comfortable environment for the Thunder, who were looking to even the series.
The importance of this game was not lost on either team or their respective coaches. Mark Daigneault of the Thunder noted that Dallas' physicality and intensity in Game 2 served as a valuable case study for their approach in Game 5. Jason Kidd, coach of the Mavericks, knew that his team needed to find answers on offense for Doncic and Irving while maintaining their defensive efforts.
