Injuries Plague Clippers in Loss to Suns
The Los Angeles Clippers, missing five key players due to injuries, suffered a 108-124 defeat at home against the Phoenix Suns, ending their four-game winning streak and solidifying the first playoff matchup of the season.
Playoff Matchup Determined
The Clippers’ loss not only confirms their inability to secure a top-three seed in the Western Conference but also sets up a playoff matchup against the Dallas Mavericks. Both teams are guaranteed to be seeded fourth or fifth in the West, though home-court advantage is yet to be determined. Nonetheless, the Clippers and Mavericks will face off in the first round of the playoffs, marking the first confirmed postseason matchup of the NBA season.
Lakers and Warriors Eliminated
Following this game, the Suns’ victory eliminated both the Los Angeles Lakers and the Golden State Warriors from contention for the top eight spots in the Western Conference, establishing the second set of play-in matchups for this season. The first set features the Chicago Bulls and the Miami Heat, who finished ninth and tenth, respectively, in the Eastern Conference.
Clippers’ Injury Woes
In this matchup, the Clippers were without Kawhi Leonard, Paul George, James Harden, Russell Westbrook, and Ivica Zubac, all sidelined due to injuries. Despite the absence of these key players, the Suns, who trailed by just one point at halftime and after the third quarter, outscored the Clippers 32-15 in the fourth quarter to secure the victory.
Outstanding Performances
Devin Booker led the Suns with 37 points, while Kevin Durant contributed 24 points and 9 rebounds. Bradley Beal added 26 points, and Jusuf Nurkic recorded a triple-double with 19 points, 19 rebounds, and 10 assists, helping the Suns end their two-game losing streak.
Vogel’s Confidence
Suns head coach Frank Vogel acknowledged the absence of the Clippers’ key players but praised his team’s effort, noting that players who don’t typically see much playing time seize the opportunity to step up. Vogel emphasized the importance of sticking to the team’s strategy and maintaining focus to secure victories.
Hyland’s Career Performance
Despite the loss, Clippers guard Bones Hyland delivered a career-high 37 points. Additionally, Brandon Boston Jr., averaging 4.1 points per game in just 8.6 minutes of play this season, contributed 23 points off the bench for the Clippers. (Phlwin)