On Friday night, the Dallas Mavericks defeated the LA Clippers 114-101 in a series-clinching Game 6 scenario.

The Mavericks dominated in all facets of the game and only gave up one lead the entire game before dismantling an aging Clippers roster.

The Mavericks have now clinched a second-round matchup versus the Oklahoma City Thunder, as the Thunder won’t be a pushover despite their youth.

Mavericks’ matchup with Thunder is series every fan wants to see

During the regular season, the Thunder got the better of the Mavericks and won the season series 3-1. However, the playoffs have brought out a different intensity for both teams. During the Thunder’s first-round matchup against a battered New Orleans Pelicans squad, they dispatched them quickly in four games, while the Mavericks handled the Clippers in six.

Headed into the second round of the playoffs, the Mavericks have multiple X-factor players they can rely on including Derrick Jones Jr. who has been dominant on both ends of the floor against the Clippers. Jones Jr. has elevated his play on the offensive end while still being just as commanding on the defensive end.

Dallas’ big men also displayed their defensive prowess in the Mavericks’ series victory over the Clippers, as Daniel Gafford and Dereck Lively II were able to close the series versus the Clippers on a high note by establishing their physicality and deterring shots at the rim to a premium. However, against the Thunder their effect will be on full display.

Against the Thunder’s rookie center Chet Holmgren, the Mavericks duo of centers will need to have a great series if they wish to have any success against OKC. It will be important for the Mavericks to establish their presence down low in the first few games of the series if the Mavericks wantflu to advance into the Western Conference Finals.

To add more fuel to the fire, superstars Luka Doncic and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander will have their first crack at one another under the bright lights. The two have been in constant back-and-forth MVP conversations so this could be the series we see one emerge over the other.

Its no secret the Mavericks have their work cut out for them against the Thunder but if role players continue to hit their stride in the postseason and star players find their rhythm then the Mavericks could walk out of this series with a victory.

For more on the Dallas Mavericks’ upcoming playoff matchup with the OKC Thunder, stay plugged in as we will have you covered.