Instant Reactions: Clippers outlast Mavericks in OT as Cooper Flagg shows toughness in defeat

Cooper Flagg drove down the lane looking to shoot a floater before Los Angeles Clippers forward John Collins swatted the Mavericks rookie’s shot. Flagg was seemingly hit on the play and lay on the hardwood while the Mavericks played four-on-five defense on the other end.

Flagg willed himself up, and two possessions later he drove down the lane again and converted a layup.

The ability to consistently attack the rim even after getting hit showed Flagg’s resolve and tenacity.

Flagg, who finished with 18 points and nine rebounds, wasn’t the only Mavericks player injured. Daniel Gafford, who finished with seven points and 13 rebounds, appeared to injure his shoulder before halftime and walked to the locker room. He did not start the third quarter but returned shortly after. Gafford threw down a dunk moments later, showing he still had his vertical pop.

Clippers stars Kawhi Leonard and Darius Garland combined for 75 points to help lead Los Angeles to an 138-131 overtime victory against the Mavericks.