Luka’s Struggles Lead to Mavs’ Defeat in Game 4 Against Thunder
In a crucial Game 4 showdown, the Dallas Mavericks fell to the Oklahoma City Thunder 112-105, largely due to an uncharacteristically rough night for their star player, Luka Dončić. The loss puts the Mavericks in a tough spot as they now trail 3-1 in the series.
From the opening tip-off, it was clear that Dončić was not at his best. The Thunder’s aggressive defense and physical play seemed to unsettle him. Despite his efforts, Luka struggled to find his rhythm, shooting just 5-of-21 from the field and 1-of-9 from beyond the arc. He finished the game with 15 points, well below his season average, and committed seven turnovers, contributing to the Mavericks’ struggles.
The Mavericks tried to compensate for Dončić’s off night with contributions from other players. Jalen Brunson stepped up with 24 points and Spencer Dinwiddie added 18, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the balanced attack of the Thunder. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led Oklahoma City with 32 points, showcasing his ability to take control in critical moments.
Dallas had moments of promise, particularly in the third quarter when they went on a 12-2 run to cut the Thunder’s lead to three points. However, costly turnovers and missed opportunities allowed Oklahoma City to regain control and extend their lead in the final quarter.
The Thunder’s defense deserves significant credit for their victory. They effectively double-teamed Dončić and disrupted his usual playmaking abilities, forcing the Mavericks to rely on less consistent scoring options. Oklahoma City’s ability to contain Luka was a key factor in their win.
With the series now at 3-1, the Mavericks face a daunting task. They must win three consecutive games to advance, a challenge compounded by Dončić’s apparent struggles. Coach Jason Kidd emphasized the need for the team to support their star player and improve their overall execution.
“We’ve got to play smarter and take care of the ball,” Kidd said post-game. “Luka’s a great player, and we believe in him. It’s on all of us to step up and be better.”
As the series shifts back to Dallas for Game 5, the Mavericks will need a revitalized performance from Dončić and a collective effort from the entire team to keep their playoff hopes alive.
