50-point lead.

Thats what the Mavericks had this afternoon against the Clippers.

…at halftime.

The 50-point lead at halftime marked the largest first half lead in NBA history.

The Mavericks lead the Los Angeles Clippers by 50 points at the half, setting a new franchise and @NBA record.

The NBA’s previous record for largest lead at the midway point was 47 points by GSW on 11/2/1991 against SAC. pic.twitter.com/2AR0LBZCwM

— Mavs PR (@MavsPR) December 27, 2020

Dallas came out the gate firing in the first half, playing with a sense of urgency that we hadn’t seen in the first two games of the season. The Clippers on the other hand, came out as if they still had the crust in their eye, playing with no passion without their star Kawhi Leonard.

Though Dallas was accustomed to blowing leads last season, they were sure to hold on to their 50-point halftime lead, beating the Clippers 124-73.

Luka led the way with 24 points, 9 rebounds, and 8 assists. Josh Richardson followed suit with 21 points of his own, hitting 4/8 from three.

Josh Richardson has continued to show just how good he can be for this team on both sides of the ball in just three games this season. “J-Rich has given us a really unique element, a leadership presence, a calming presence for a team that can be emotional at times,” Carlisle said of Richardson.

Outside of clicking offensively, the Mavericks defensive intensity was evident today. The toughness and effort were there from the tip on every single possession. On Christmas, the Mavericks were out-rebounded 53-27. Today, they out-rebounded the Clippers 54-36.

The Hornets will visit the American Airlines Center on Wednesday for the Mavericks’ home opener.