The Dallas Mavericks secured a 101-90 victory against the LA Clippers in Game 3, marked by intense confrontations that led to ejections and showcased P.J. Washington’s rising popularity among local fans.
Washington, acquired by the Mavericks at the trade deadline, found himself ejected alongside Clippers guard Russell Westbrook with 6:10 remaining in the game. The altercation ignited when Westbrook forcefully fouled Mavericks’ star Luka Doncic, prompting a series of shoves and exchanges between the players.
Washington, expressing his protective instinct for his teammate, emphasized the need to defend Doncic at all costs. Westbrook’s ejection, his first in a playoff game, underscored the escalating tensions on the court. Clippers coach Tyronn Lue stressed the importance of maintaining composure, acknowledging the heightened intensity of playoff games but urging his team to handle such situations better.
Despite contributing 10 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 steals to the Mavericks’ victory, Washington also found himself ejected after a confrontation with Clippers’ Terance Mann. His iconic pose amidst the chaos, coupled with Doncic’s amused reaction, added a theatrical element to the incident. Doncic praised Washington’s team-first mentality and his role as an enforcer for the team.
Westbrook’s aggressive play extended beyond the confrontation with Doncic, as he was also penalized for a flagrant foul against Mavericks’ Josh Green. Doncic, accustomed to facing physical challenges on the court, maintained his composure and focused on the game despite the added physicality.
Following a Game 1 loss where they acknowledged a lack of physicality, the Mavericks have since tightened their defense, holding the Clippers to 93 and 90 points in the subsequent games to take a 2-1 series lead. Mavericks coach Jason Kidd attributed the emerging friction to the typical intensity of playoff basketball, emphasizing the mental sharpness required to navigate such physical matchups.
The series promises to remain mentally and physically demanding as it progresses, with both teams vying for every advantage. The players’ willingness to protect and support each other underscores the competitive spirit driving the playoffs.
