The NBA playoff series between the Los Angeles Clippers and the Phoenix Suns continues to heat up as both teams gear up for a crucial Game 5 at Footprint Center. With the Suns leading the series 3-1, the Clippers will have to play with urgency to keep their playoff hopes alive.
However, the Clippers will have to do so without their two injured superstars Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, both of whom are listed on the injury report as out due to right knee sprains. Their absence is a major blow to the team, as they are two of the Clippers’ top scorers and defensive players.
On the other hand, the Suns have only one player listed on their injury report, Cameron Payne, who is listed as probable for the game due to low back soreness. Payne’s availability will be critical for the Suns, who have been one of the most consistent teams in the playoffs.
While the Suns have been a dominant force throughout the playoffs, they are 1-1 at home in this series, having won twice on the road in Los Angeles. Their main stars, including Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Chris Paul, will be looking to continue their impressive run and take the Suns back to the NBA Finals for the first time since 2021.
The Clippers’ star player Russell Westbrook will have to step up in the absence of Leonard and George. Westbrook has been averaging 26 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 7.3 assists in 38 minutes per game in this series. The team will need him to continue his impressive form if they are to make a comeback and extend the series.
As the teams prepare for this crucial game, the stakes could not be higher. The Suns will be hoping to continue their impressive playoff run and reach the NBA Finals, while the Clippers will be looking to avoid elimination and keep their playoff dreams alive. Fans of both teams can expect an exciting and high-intensity game.
Ahead of tonight’s game, the Suns are considered favorites amongst bookmakers, with NBA lines site Betway pricing them at -650 to beat the Clippers. The NBA odds for Los Angeles to win this game are at +550.
