NBA playoffs: Clippers take controversial opener as Dallas’ Porzingis ejected [VIDEO]
The Los Angeles Clippers beat the Dallas Mavericks, 118-110 in their Western Conference first round series opener in a game marred by Kristaps Porzingis’ questionable ejection.
Kawhi Leonard scored 29 points while Paul George added 27 points as the Clippers stars led the team to a 1-0 lead.
But the turning point of the game was the ejection of Mavericks star Porzingis, who collected two technicals in the game.
The 1st tech was handed out in the 1st half when he was called for a foul on George despite a clean block. His reaction — punching the air — merited a T.
Later, an altercation with Marcus Morris, wherein the Latvian forward shoved the Clippers forward, also translated into a T which led to Porzingis’ ejection.
ESPN analyst Jeff Van Gundy said during the broadcast that the technical fouls were “weak.”
Luka Doncic led Dallas with 42 points, 7 rebounds, and 9 assists in a stellar playoff debut.
Porzingis finished with 14 in less than 20 minutes of play.
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