The Los Angeles Clippers relished getting back to their home court, dominating Game Three to get on board in the series. Paul George and Reggie Jackson stood up for LA, ensuring they got the win over the Phoenix Suns on Thursday night.
LA came out strong to begin the game, holding a 29-21 lead after the first period, but soon saw that dwindle away. Phoenix turned on their defense in the second, restricting the Clippers to just 17 points, scoring 27 themselves, to have a 48-46 lead at halftime.
The Clippers, with their backs against the wall, had to come out strong in the second half and that is exactly what they did. A 34-21 third quarter saw them take back the lead and then they never gave it up, eventually winning 106-92.
Deandre Ayton was the lead man for Phoenix but had just 18 points, while Chris Paul had 15 points and 12 assists in his first game back since testing positive for COVID-19. However, Paul and Devin Booker both struggled from the floor and it resulted in the Game Three loss.
With Kawhi Leonard still out, the Clippers needed everybody to step up in order to get the win. Ivica Zubac had a massive 15 point, 16 rebound double double, adding two blocks as well, while Jackson took over in the second half, finishing with 23 points for the game.
Ultimately, the Clippers’ fate rests in the hands of George. Despite a poor shooting performance, just 9-26 from the field and 3-11 from three, George still had a game high 27 points, along with 15 boards and eight assists in a dominant performance.
The Clippers now have their tails up after an inspiring performance at home. Will they be able to win Game Four on Saturday night in front of the fans again or can the Suns make the appropriate adjustments to win their third game of the series? I guess we will have to wait until Saturday night to find out!
