Suns vs Clippers have met three times. In those three games, the totals have gone over in five of the games and under in four. The total in their last six games has been 206, 196, 198, and 199 points, respectively. So, the Clippers should be favored in this game. Nonetheless, there are some things to keep in mind before betting on this game.
Los Angeles Clippers are 3-1 SU and ATS since Paul George returned from an elbow injury
The Suns Vs Clippers have been a disappointing team for most of the season, but they have made a late surge to secure a playoff spot. Paul George missed significant chunks of the season, and without him, the Clippers were considered championship contenders. After Paul George returned from an elbow injury on January 8, the team was already locked into the eighth seed in a play-in tournament. On Wednesday, the Clippers host the league-leading Phoenix Suns.
This early run has been exciting, but the Clippers have been a long shot for the playoffs. Paul George is expected to be out at least three to four weeks. But before the Clippers rush to get George back, they should rest him. It would be a shame to risk aggravating his injury by making a late push for the playoffs. But he is a six-time All-NBA and four-time All-Defensive team member.
Reggie Jackson is an elite scorer
The Clippers’ approach to load distribution makes sense for the supporting players. With George and Leonard out, the Clippers got rather static. Jackson, however, thrived when the team needed to get the tempo up. He helped lead rallies, drive to the rim, and make crucial defensive stops. In short, Jackson is an elite scorer. The Suns vs Clippers must take advantage of this.
It is also worth noting that Reggie Jackson was a free agent this summer. Suns vs Clippers While not a top priority free agent, Jackson averaged 10.7 points and 3.1 assists per game during the regular season. His nine games of 20 points or more were against difficult teams. Jackson will provide veteran experience and timely scoring from all three levels. He helped keep the LA Clippers in the playoffs by providing a reliable outlet for defensive attention directed toward Paul George and Kawhi Leonard.
Chris Powell is a solid defender
In the playoff race, Chris Powell has become a valuable defender against the Los Angeles Clippers. Paul George and Kawhi Leonard are both out with injuries. Meanwhile, Reggie Jackson is averaging under 17 points per game and shooting 39% from the field. Despite this, the Clippers are still in the playoff hunt and are in the eighth seed in the Western Conference. In a recent ESPN interview, Powell explained his status. He is currently on the shelf due to a foot injury. While the injury isn’t yet serious, Powell spoke about the Clippers’ threat in the postseason.
In the postseason, Chris Powell will be essential, as the Suns vs Clippers shoot a ton of threes and are prone to being pushed around. However, the Wolves’ ability to remain composed against this group will be essential. The Clippers have an edge in experience. This is especially true in the postseason, where physicality is the key to winning. Powell is a solid defender against the Clippers.
Reggie Jackson’s defense
You may be wondering whether Reggie Jackson’s stellar play on Tuesday will help the Heat beat the Clippers. It’s true that the Clippers are a solid team, but if he can’t play defense, he’ll struggle to play well against his former team. Fortunately, Jackson’s defensive play has made him an integral part of the team this season and has played a crucial role in their playoff hopes.
As for Jackson’s play on defense, Rivers had some harsh words for his rookie effort. “I’d like to temper expectations,” Rivers told reporters after the game. “I’m not going to set him up for success.” But that doesn’t mean that Jackson won’t be successful. That’s one reason why Doc Rivers was able to be blunt in his assessment of Jackson’s performance.
Bismack Biyombo fills in as backup center for Jalen Smith
With the injured Monty Williams out, the Phoenix Suns opted to sign Bismack Biyombo to a 10-day contract. Though he has not shown much offensive savvy, the veteran center fits the mold of a backup center. Biyombo is a high-energy defender, but he has a newfound relish for sealing man under the basket to create scoring opportunities for his teammates.
While JaVale McGee is a valuable player, his production is limited in sports. Bismack Biyombo fills the void, giving McGee a break. Biyombo can provide the same punch as McGee, lightening up the load of the veteran center. While Biyombo can’t replace Smith as a starter, he is a solid backup.
Reggie Jackson’s shooting
We’ve all heard the complaints about Reggie Jackson’s shooting during suns games, but what is the real reason for his poor performance last night? It may be due to his injury, but the shooting of Jackson is a reflection of his own mental state. The veteran guard has missed a career-high 20 field goals in four games, including two in the playoffs. His shooting isn’t the reason for his lackluster play, though. There are many reasons why this might be the case, but the biggest reason may be the injury.
For one, Jackson has been injured the past three seasons. He has a history of injury, but he has remained healthy this postseason. Reggie Jackson’s poor shooting may be a factor, but it is not the reason why he has been benched in the past. He has underachieved throughout his career, but his recent heroics will have the Clippers’ fans clamoring for him to return.