Depleted Clippers Fade After Halftime in Loss to Suns
Ivica Zubac scored 23 points and grabbed 11 rebounds as the Clippers fell 115-102 to the Phoenix Suns on Thursday night. The Clippers played without Kawhi Leonard and James Harden and could not hold their halftime lead, dropping their third consecutive game.
Clippers Struggle Amid Absences
The Clippers aimed to build chemistry early in the season with a reshaped roster, but missing key players has complicated that effort and contributed to their losing streak. Harden was out for personal reasons, while Leonard was sidelined due to a right ankle sprain.
Suns Strong Third Quarter Seals Victory
Despite trailing 51-48 at halftime, Phoenix dominated the third quarter to take control. Jalen Green led the Suns with 29 points in his Phoenix debut, playing 23 minutes after missing their first eight games with a hamstring strain. Devin Booker also contributed 24 points.
- Green shot 10-for-20 from the field, including 6-for-13 from three-point range.
- The Suns made 19 three-pointers, just one shy of their season high.
- Green was acquired in a seven-team offseason trade that sent Kevin Durant to Houston.
Key Clippers Contributors
- Ivica Zubac: 23 points, 11 rebounds
- Cam Christon: 17 points off the bench
- John Collins: 13 points
- Bogdan Bogdanovic: 12 points
"Harden missed the game for personal reasons, while Leonard was sidelined with a right ankle sprain."
"Green, a guard who missed the Suns’ first eight games with a right hamstring strain, shot 10 for 20 from the field, including 6 for 13 from 3-point range."
Author's summary: The Clippers, missing key stars, lost their third straight game as the Suns showcased a strong third quarter led by Jalen Green’s impressive debut.