This is the deepest playoff run the LA Clippers have had in franchise history, and their endgame would be to reach the NBA Finals. However, the Phoenix Suns are of the same mindset but have been more successful so far in making it happen.

After losing the first two games against a team for the third straight time this postseason, the Clippers ensured they bounced back from that like all those previous games to reduce the deficit. Game 3 is how they did it, but they were unable to tie the series in Game 4. And now, the Suns have a 3-1 lead in the Western Conference Finals.

Phoenix Suns for the win, again!

Despite lagging behind in the first half, the Clippers were able to catch up to the Phoenix Suns for an incredible 106-92 win in Game 3. While it looked like history would repeat itself in Game 4 as well, the Clippers came inches closer to the Suns only to lose the game 84-80.

With Kawhi Leonard out, Paul George has been carrying the team on his back. But there is only so much he can do. In the first half itself, the Suns dominated and took a 14-point lead.

Devin Booker finished the night with 25 points, whereas PG added 23 points. However, it was DeAndre Ayton who made all the difference with his 19 points.

The LA Clippers had a scoring drought in the second quarter as well. They were unable to drop a single basket for 6 whole minutes. Although they were able to cut the deficit to single digits by the third, they could never take the lead.

In fact, they trailed by a solitary point in the fourth, but the Suns made sure that was all they would get. This matchup went head to head but was a low-scoring affair, and now, NBA Twitter is reacting to the clash.

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Where are the Clippers lacking?

The biggest issue for every team this season has been player injuries. And when it happens to the star player of the team, that too at a significant point in the game, it’s just heartbreaking for the fans

For no fault of their own, the Clippers are forced to play without their backbone in Kawhi Leonard. With Kawhi Leonard injured, they have suffered greatly. He has been their guiding force this season and to not have him in the WCF is just a big drawback.

Initially, Suns’ Chris Paul was benched as well because of COVID-19 health and safety protocols. So, the matchup seemed fairer. But with Chris Paul cleared to play and back, the Clippers are headed for trouble ahead.

Leonard is still highly unlikely to make it for Game 5. Assuming he doesn’t return at all, do you think LA has a shot at winning this series without Kawhi?

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