
USA Today via Reuters
Jun 6, 2021; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (2) reacts during the second half in game seven of the first round of the 2021 NBA Playoffs. at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

USA Today via Reuters
Jun 6, 2021; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (2) reacts during the second half in game seven of the first round of the 2021 NBA Playoffs. at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
The Phoenix Suns host the LA Clippers in game 5 of the Western Conference tonight. This game is scheduled for a broadcast of 8:30 PM and will be played in the Suns arena.
The LA Clippers have had a pretty unpredictable playoffs so far. Coming out of 2-0 deficits in their first two playoff series’ the Clippers have shown incredible resolve. But against the Suns it has been a different case all together. After winning game 3 and trailing the series 2-1, the Clippers had the perfect opportunity to make a comeback and tie the series.
But the Clippers were pretty sluggish in game 4. Missing 15 shots from the field in the fourth quarter, LAC failed to capitalize and could not cut down a 3-point deficit. Even star Paul George missed some clutch free throws, reminiscent of game 2. With odds stacked up against them, can the Clippers make a comeback in the series?
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The Phoenix Suns have been one of the best teams in this season’s playoffs. Going up against teams like the Lakers and the Nuggets, the Suns easily steamrolled to the Western Conference Finals. Facing off against the Clippers, the Suns haven’t been as dominant though. After having a close win in game 1, the Suns have survived two games by skin of their teeth in game 2 and game 4.
With a 3-1 lead in the series, the Suns will hope that they can step up to the plate in game 5 and easily blow out the Clippers who are in missing their talisman in Kawhi Leonard. Given that Chris Paul is also back with the Suns, Devin Booker and Co. will hope that they can close out their series at their home arena and cruise to the Finals.
Predictions
But in these playoffs, the Suns have shown that they are a formidable side in their home court and are also at full strength with Chris Paul back from the health and safety protocols. Given how the Suns have performed in the home arena, they surely have an advantage over the depleted LA Clippers.
Prediction- Phoenix Suns close out the series against the LA Clippers winning game 5.
LA Clippers’ injury updates and predicted lineup
The Clippers will be missing two key players in a crucial game 6 against the Suns. Starting center Serge Ibaka is out for the season with a back injury. But perhaps the biggest blow is the injury update on Kawhi Leonard who is listed out as he recovers from a knee injury.

USA Today via Reuters
Jun 24, 2021; Los Angeles, California, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Torrey Craig (12) moves to the basket against Los Angeles Clippers forward Marcus Morris Sr. (8) during the second half in game three of the Western Conference Finals for the 2021 NBA Playoffs at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
Probable Lineup
Reggie Jackson (G)
Paul George (G)
Luke Kennard (G)
Marcus Morris Sr. (F)
Nicolas Batum (C)
Phoenix Suns- Injury updates and lineup prediction
The Phoenix Suns do not have any injury concerns in game 5 against the Clippers. With a 3-1 lead in the Western Conference Finals, the Suns have the perfect opportunity to close out the series in their home arena and advance to the Finals.

USA Today via Reuters
Jun 26, 2021; Los Angeles, California, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Mikal Bridges (25) passes the ball to guard Chris Paul (3) against Los Angeles Clippers guard Paul George (right) in the first quarter of game four of the Western Conference Finals for the 2021 NBA Playoffs at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
Probable Lineup
Chris Paul (G)
Devin Booker (G)
Mikal Bridges (F)
Jae Crowder (F)
DeAndre Ayton (C)
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Who will win between the Phoenix Suns and the LA Clippers? Let us know in the comments below.
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