The LA Clippers face off against the first seeded Utah Jazz in game 4 of their second-round series. This game is scheduled for 10:00 PM EST and will be held at Staples Center.
After two disappointing losses in a row, the Clippers knew that they had to make a comeback against the Utah Jazz. Superstars Kawhi Leonard and Paul George certainly stepped up as they combined to score a total of 65 points against the Jazz.
While PG13 and Kawhi had a fantastic offensive display, they also put the clamps down on Donovan Mitchell, who missed 13 of his 24 attempted shots. Even players like Nicolas Batum and Reggie Jackson stepped up for the Clippers, scoring a combined 34 points resulting in a blowout 132-106 victory.
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The Utah Jazz initially had taken a 2-0 lead in the series. With Donovan Mitchell averaging about 41 points for the first two games, the Jazz looked in prime position to take a commanding 3-0 lead in the series.
But in their first game playing at the Staples Center, the Jazz had a night to forget. Despite Mitchell scoring 30 points, the supporting cast fell flat against the Clippers. The Jazz especially struggled against the small-ball lineup of the Clippers who limited big man Rudy Gobert. Coach Quin Snyder will hope that his team can step up and avoid the Clippers tieing the series.
LA Clippers’ injury updates and predicted lineup
The Clippers will be missing their starting center Serge Ibaka who has been sidelined with a back injury for the rest of the playoffs. After a dominant display against the Jazz in game 3, coach Ty Lue will hope that his team can maintain their electrifying form in game 4 and tie the series.
Probable Lineup
Reggie Jackson (G)
Paul George (G)
Kawhi Leonard (G)
Marcus Morris Sr. (F)
Nicolas Batum (C)
Utah Jazz injury updates and lineup prediction
The Jazz might miss two key players due to injuries. Rookie forward Elijah Hughes is out with an illness. Their starting point guard, Mike Conley, is questionable as he recovers from a hamstring injury. Their biggest concern, however, will be the health of Donovan Mitchell who was seen hobbling in game 3.
Probable Lineup
Joe Ingles (G)
Donovan Mitchell (G)
Bojan Bogdanovic (F)
Royce O’Neale (F)
Rudy Gobert (C)
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Predictions
This matchup between the Jazz and the Clippers is certainly one of the most intriguing matchups in the second round given how well-matched both the teams are. While the Utah Jazz might be in a 2-1 lead in the series, the Clippers are finally showing the depth and the talent they have.
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Given the form Kawhi and Co. showed against the Jazz in game 3, it won’t be a surprise if they win game 4 and tie the series. Much of it is also because of all the injury concerns the Jazz have as they might miss Mike Conley and also see their superstar Donovan Mitchell playing through injury.
Prediction: LA Clippers edge past the Utah Jazz in game 4 and tie the series.
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Given that the Jazz have a 2-1 lead, a win will change the momentum for either team. If the Clippers win, they will tie the series and with form on their side, will probably become the favorites. Meanwhile, if the Jazz win, they will be in prime position to have pulled off a gentleman sweep back in Utah. Which team do you think will be victorious in this matchup?
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