much every game to solidify that sixth spot, and we understand that.”

Lue said having that intensity and pressure every night can serve as a motivator.

“I see them responding (to the pressure),” Lue added.

The Clippers used that motivation to get a quick jump on the dismantled Dallas Mavericks and didn’t let up, coming away with a 114-91 victory on Friday in the first game of a back-to-back at the Intuit Dome.

The teams play again today, giving the Clippers another opportunity for a stress-free victory. Only they will have to do that without Kawhi Leonard, who, although healthy, is expected to sit out the second game.

“Our No. 1 goal is to make the playoffs, whatever direction we got to go,” Lue said.

The Clippers took another step Friday in the right direction. Their victory, combined with the Golden State Warriors’ victory over the Denver Nuggets on Friday, pushed them from No. 8 to No. 7, a game behind the No. 5 Warriors (45-41).

At 45-32, the Clippers are tied with the No. 6 Minnesota Timberwolves and No. 8 Memphis Grizzlies.

The Clippers, who have won 13 of their past 16 games, had little trouble maintaining their focus on their playoff goal against the limited Mavericks (38-40).

Power forward Anthony Davis returned to Los Angeles for the first time since being traded from the Lakers to the Mavericks but never got off the bench.

The 10-time All-Star was ruled out before the game with a left adductor strain, the same injury that sidelined him for 18 straight games. Mavs coach Jason Kidd said there is a chance Davis plays today in the second game of the back-to-back.

The Mavs already were without Kyrie Irving, who had ACL surgery eight days ago.