Understanding the Clippers impact on Luka Doncic finding himself among NBA greats

Though the Clippers have a 2-1 lead against the Mavericks in their three playoff series since 2020, Luka Doncic has always been a problem. The Slovenian sensation has accounted for some of his career-best performances against Kawhi Leonard and Co.

Unfortunately, Luka didn't have much help in his first two playoff meetings with the Clippers. Despite filling the stat sheet, the Mavs guard needed to clinch the series. Nonetheless, the acquisition of Kyrie Irving in 2023 served as a masterstroke.

The recent 2024 playoffs saw the two teams clash again, but the Mavericks reigned supreme this time. Luka's historic feat, placing him alongside some of the NBA's greats, added to the celebration in Dallas.

Luka Doncic is 4th all-time in 35p/10a playoff games

Sharing the 4th rank with 2018 draftmate Trae Young and other big names, Luka has four playoff games with at least 35 points and ten assists. Ironically, all of them are against the Clippers, having faced them in 19 postseason matchups since the Orlando Bubble.

The 2024 scoring champion's accolade bestowed all-time status upon him, placing Luka alongside LeBron James, Jerry West, and Michael Jordan . Apart from Young, the Mavs guard is tied with Damian Lillard, Russell Westbrook, Kobe Bryant, and Kevin Johnson at four games.

It's only a matter of time before Luka climbs further in the list. However, it will be interesting to see if the five-time All-Star can dethrone King James, who ranks first with twelve games. While it may seem doable, the Lakers superstar has been defying genetics, continuing to play his best basketball as he nears 40.

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