Clippers vs. Suns NBA Preview and Picks
The NBA features just one game on Thursday, as the Los Angeles Clippers face the Phoenix Suns in a Western Conference showdown tipping off at 9:00 p.m. This game sets the tone ahead of the full Emirates NBA Cup slate on Friday.
Key Players and Injuries
The Clippers will be missing guard James Harden (personal reasons) and forward Kawhi Leonard (ankle injury). Meanwhile, the Suns are without forward Dillon Brooks, sidelined with a groin injury for the sixth consecutive game. However, the Suns might receive a boost from guard Jalen Green, who is probable with a hamstring injury but has yet to play this season.
Recent Team Performance
- Clippers defeated the Suns by 27 points in their earlier meeting in Los Angeles.
- Clippers have a 3-2 record at home but have lost both away games by large margins: 21 points to the Jazz and 19 points to the Warriors.
- Suns are winless on the road but hold a strong 3-1 record at home, including a victory over the Spurs.
Top NBA Picks for the Game
- Bradley Beal (Clippers, Guard)
- Chris Paul (Clippers, Guard)
- A surprise forward from the Clippers (unnamed)
"The Clippers will be shorthanded for this matchup, with G James Harden (personal) and F Kawhi Leonard (ankle) having already been ruled out."
"The Suns will also be missing a key starter with F Dillon Brooks (groin) sidelined for the sixth straight game."
"When these two teams met in Los Angeles earlier in the season, the Clippers won by 27 points."
Both teams aim to secure their first road victory this season, making this clash a critical contest for momentum in the Western Conference.
Author's summary: The Clippers and Suns meet in a key Western Conference battle with both teams facing injury challenges and searching for their first road wins this NBA season.