The Dallas Mavericks lost 118-95 to the Los Angeles Clippers on Thursday night in Dallas. Klay Thompson led the Mavericks with 22 points, while Norman Powell led the Clippers with 29 on elite efficiency (10 of 18 from the floor, 4 of 8 from three and 5 of 5 from the free throw line).

The Mavericks were without their superstar backcourt despite playing just one game in nine days. The Mavericks simply weren’t able to generate enough quality offense due to the elite backcourt being occupied. Thompson tried to provide in their absence and was good overall, but he was 2 of 9 from three when his shot let him down.

Spencer Dinwiddie also contributed 19 points and seven assists. It wasn’t enough against the Clippers, where Ivica Zubac and James Harden, along with Powell, scored over 20 points.

Here are the things you should know.

Zubac is a problem for the Mavericks

The Mavericks’ middle rotation is a strength and they have the advantage in most matchups. In games where Doncic and Irving are present to punish Zubac in pick-and-rolls, they might even have an advantage in this matchup. But without the star guards, Zubac was able to beat the Mavericks’ centers en route to 21 points, 15 rebounds and five assists.

The Mavericks couldn’t box him out or defend him, which led to double plays. This led to kick-outs from post-ups and offensive rebounds. The resulting threes felt like backbreakers.

The Mavericks really missed their stars tonight

The Mavericks have bigger goals than winning the December game. However, the venue for the May and June games can be decided in December. The health of Doncic and Irving is of utmost importance. They need to be taken care of, but the best skill is availability and part of being a superstar is being there for your teammates. Without both guards, the Mavericks simply couldn’t generate enough offense to win or even keep up.

Naji Marshall is still an upgrade from Derrick Jones Jr.

Marshall wasn’t at his best tonight as he hasn’t found his rhythm yet after his illness. However, with Jones on the court at the same time, it became clear how much more developed and polished Marshall’s offensive game is.

Jones did a fantastic job for the Mavericks last year and is a good NBA player. At the highest levels he had limitations that could be exploited. Marshall does not share these limitations.

Overall, there just aren’t many long-term takeaways other than the Mavericks need Doncic and Irving to be successful.