The Dallas Mavericks returned to the playoffs after missing out on last year's edition, but their opening game against the Los Angeles Clippers ended in disappointment.
The Mavericks lost 109-97 in Game 1 against the Clippers on Sunday, April 21, at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.
Mavericks star Kyrie Irving recognized their opponents' strong performance but emphasized that they can learn valuable lessons from the loss and will apply them in preparation for Game 2.
"I think this was a great first test for us. We obviously failed, we came out with a loss. I think there are some things we can take into Game 2... Just not overthink it. I talked about this a few weeks back. It's a series. Not a time to lose confidence," the 32-year-old guard said in the post-game interview.
Irving scored 31 points on 10-of-18 shooting, grabbed seven rebounds, dished out four assists, and recorded two steals.
Clippers win without Kawhi Leonard
The Clippers managed to secure a victory despite the absence of their best player, Kawhi Leonard.
The two-time NBA Finals MVP has been sidelined since March 31 due to inflammation in his surgically repaired right knee.
Clippers star guard James Harden returned to his vintage MVP form in this game, tallying 28 points, two rebounds, eight assists, and two blocks.
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