Clippers vs. Suns NBA Preview and Picks
The Los Angeles Clippers face the Phoenix Suns in a Western Conference matchup tipping off at 9:00 p.m. Thursday, with only one NBA game scheduled that day before a full slate of Emirates NBA Cup games on Friday.
Team Updates and Key Absences
- The Clippers will be missing guard James Harden (personal reasons) and forward Kawhi Leonard (ankle), both ruled out for this game.
- The Suns will be without forward Dillon Brooks, who is sidelined with a groin injury for the sixth consecutive game.
- Guard Jalen Green is listed as probable for the Suns, potentially boosting their backcourt as he has yet to play this season due to a hamstring injury.
Recent Performance and Records
In their previous meeting in Los Angeles earlier this season, the Clippers dominated with a 27-point victory.
- The Clippers have a 3-2 record at home but have been heavily beaten in both road games: a 21-point loss to the Jazz in Utah and a 19-point defeat by the Warriors in San Francisco.
- The Suns are also struggling away from home with no wins on the road, but hold a strong 3-1 record at home, including a win against the Spurs.
Notable Player Focus
- Guard Bradley Beal and point guard Chris Paul lead the Clippers’ roster and are key players to watch in this matchup.
- A surprise forward is also expected to play a significant role for the Clippers, adding intrigue to the game’s dynamics.
"The Clippers won by 27 points in their earlier meeting and are 3-2 at home, but both road games ended in heavy losses," highlighting their contrasting performances.