Dallas lost too many games at the end of the regular championship, although a good start allowed them to count on getting into the top four and a straight pass to the 1/8 finals. The key to success was the concrete defensive line – only 177 goals conceded, which is the best indicator. In the struggle for places, the “cowboys” suffered two heavy defeats and only once won and even then with great difficulty. At first they equalized with “St. Louis” (2: 1, B) in front of the siren and then scored one bullet.
Sailboats did not manage to impose a fight for the first line of the West, Lakers and may also lose the second place if they fail two meetings. Doc Rivers’ guys know how to act much better, because with such professionals as Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, they can even claim the championship. The Clippers lost in the last meeting to Brooklyn (120-129), which became a real sensation, because the Nets are far from the optimal lineup. It is unlikely that such an imposing game is liked by fans, since in those fights where you need to win, their idols lose points. There is a confrontation ahead with a direct competitor, so the Los Angeles club clearly should not screw up again.
