jsierra1985 wrote:IamBBAnalysis wrote:The Clippers are a very good team and this series has been close so far. Props to the Clippers for stepping up in the playoffs. I think some of this is being lost in this thread. Win or lose.
Lue is making some good decisions to try to counter what the Suns do. When the Clippers are getting an open 3 point shot they are making it almost all the time. Reggie Jackson and George especially seem almost automatic.
The last game the defense of the Clippers was much better. The Suns did not score easily for the first time in 5-6 games. The game obviously could have went either way.
The Suns rely on offensive efficiency and getting the best look. Moving the ball. The Clippers rely on shooting 3 point shots. The Clippers almost have an advantage IF they can play as good of defense as the Suns. So far I don't think they have but it was close in game 2.
Game 3 & Beyond:
For the Clippers George has to play at a high level to some degree. He has to draw the attention of the defense. They have to make their 3 point shots and play great defense. They can do that.
For the Suns they get Chris Paul back. If he is not rusty that should improve their ability to get good shots more consistently throughout the game (with two of the Paul/Booker/Payne back court always in the game). He should also help with end game situations. But if he is rusty it could end up being a negative for the first game (with the Clippers having lots of energy with their home crowd).
The defense for the Suns should be improved with Paul out there. He should be fresh and he has been one of their best defenders these playoffs.
The crowd in favor of the Clippers should give them a boost and take away from the Suns.
Will George play at the level he was at before the last game? This is do or die for the Clippers...they should come out desperate.
Really the Clippers should be favored to win and have the advantage in this one. The only thing really in the Suns favor is execution on offense. It could be improved. This is a good and interesting series. Both teams are very good and fighting hard. In my opinion the two best teams these playoffs.
solid post.
i think the game will be close. IMO i dont think the crowd should have anything to do with how the suns play. Booker/CP3 obviously loves to play at staples. I do think the clippers grab one of the two games at home. I would be stunned i mean absolutely STUNNED if the suns win the next two.
on that note ...LETS F*CKING GO PHX!!
I am a Lakers fan would have cheered for the Clippers if they didn't have PG13 AND Pat Beverley.
I kept waiting for Reggie Jackson to cool off but this guy has been so hot that I don't think he will have a bad shooting game the rest of the playoffs. I expect at least 2 of these guys, Batum, Morris, Kennard, Mann to go off, while the Suns might relax esp seeing CP3 play.
Beverley has done a great job defending Booker, while Zubac has been a torn on my neck watching him hold his own.