The pulsating matchup in the Western Conference finals will reach its penultimate chapter on Wednesday evening, as the Los Angeles Clippers must beat the Phoenix Suns to stay in touch of a place in the NBA Finals.
Phoenix Suns vs LA Clippers Schedule
- When: Wednesday, 30th June
- Where: Staples Center, Los Angeles
- How To Watch: NBA League Pass
Phoenix Suns vs LA Clippers Preview
Clippers Hanging On In Series
The Los Angeles Clippers are still alive in their Western Conference Finals matchup. However, there is no more room for mistakes, as they must win game six at the Staples Center to stay alive. The Clippers currently trail in the series 3-2, but there have certainly been signs of a fightback in recent games. The Clippers were beaten in both of the previous two games, but took game three, and the recent game five. Kawhi Leonard was once again missing for the Clippers in game five of the series, but Paul George led the franchise with a remarkable 41 points, 13 rebounds and six assists.
It was a mesmeric performance from George, as the Clippers remained in contention with a victory on the road, which is something they must emulate again in game seven should the series reach that stage. The Clippers were also boosted in the 116-102 victory by 22 points from Marcus Morris Sr and 23 points from Reggie Jackson. Meanwhile, DeMarcus Cousins finished with 15.
Suns Need One More Win
The aim for the Suns is very simple on Wednesday. Victory will secure their first appearance in the NBA Finals since 1993, and could put them on the verge of winning a first ever NBA title. Phoenix have had their chances to put this series to bed on two previous occasions, but the Clippers character has seen them claim the win to keep their hopes alive. Game 3 was an opportunity that passed the Suns by, as they fell to a 106-92 defeat.
Victory in that game would have given them a 3-0 series lead, and it would have been hard to see the Clippers getting back into the series. Phoenix would have been confident going into game five, as they had home advantage and the Clippers were missed Leonard. However, they started slow, and went into the second quarter 36-26 behind. Devin Booker scored 31 points in game five, while Chris Paul scored 22 and Cameron Johnson had 14.
Playoff Meetings
Wednesday’s game five will be the 69th playoff meetings between the Lakers and Suns. The Lakers have won 40 of the previous games, while the Suns have won on 28 occasions.
Phoenix Suns vs LA Clippers Game Six Pick
This series is balanced on a knife edge. Game five will be the most pivotal game of the series, and could go a long way to deciding which franchise will progress. Victory for the Suns ends the Clippers resistance. However, the confidence that the game five win would have given the Clippers could be telling. We expect to see a game seven between these sides.
