Clippers Outlast Mavericks in Dallas

Kawhi Leonard scores 36 points against the Dallas Mavericks on January 21, 2020.

Image: Nick White

Dallas – Tuesday evening began with a huge welcome back for Kristaps Porzingis after missing the last ten games. The evening, however, concluded with Dallas losing center Dwight Powell for the season along with a 110-107 loss to the Los Angeles Clippers.

With just a few minutes remaining in the first quarter, Powell made a move to the basket. His right leg made a noticeable pop and he fell to the hardwood in agony. The 28 year-old critical role player was assisted off of the court and it was later revealed that he suffered a season-ending torn right Achilles tendon.

While visibly upset by the injury, the remaining Mavericks players would rally against a Clippers team competing without the injured Paul George.

Both Kawhi Leonard and Luka Doncic finished the night with 36 points for their respective teams. Doncic was actually one assist short of another triple-double. After the injury to Powell, Dallas Coach Rick Carlisle moved Porzingis to the center position. He finished the night with 10 points and nine rebounds in his first game back.

After the lost, Dallas is now 27-16 for the season. The team is set to face Portland Thursday night with its new lineup adjustments.