The Los Angeles Clippers have commenced another rescue mission from 2-0 down after claiming a 106-92 Game 3 win over the Phoenix Suns in their NBA Conference finals on Thursday.
Chris Paul returned for the Phoenix Suns having entered the league’s health and safety protocols last week, forcing him to miss Game 1 and 2 but he couldn’t inspire his side who were up 2-0 in the series.
Paul George top scored for the Los Angeles Clippers with 27 points, including a long-range three-pointer on the three-quarter time buzzer, as well as 15 rebounds and eight assists.
The Clippers were again without Kawhi Leonard but George had plenty of support, with Reggie Jackson scoring 23 points and Ivica Zubac adding 16 rebounds to his 15 points.
Patrick Beverley did an exceptional defensive job on Devin Booker who could only manage 15 points, with Deandre Ayton top scoring for Phoenix with 18.
The Suns led by two at half-time but the Clippers blew the game open in the second half led by a 34-21 third quarter as they attempt to come from 2-0 down for the third straight series.
“This team is tough,” George said post-game. “We do whatever it takes. We’ve got each others’ backs and we’ll play hard. I think we’ve got great resilience.”
On his own 43-minute performance, George added: “My teammates allow me to play. Tonight, I got on their backs in the fourth quarter. I told myself I’m gonna do whatever it takes in the fourth quarter.
“I’m going to give everything I have, I don’t care how many minutes I have to play. I’m gonna leave it on the floor.”
Game 4 of the series will be played in LA again on Saturday, while the Milwaukee Bucks host the Atlanta Hawks in Game 2 of their Conference finals on Friday.
