Depleted Clippers Fade After Halftime in Loss to Suns
Ivica Zubac scored 23 points and grabbed 11 rebounds, leading the Clippers, who were missing stars Kawhi Leonard and James Harden. Despite a promising first-half lead of 51-48, the Clippers succumbed in the third quarter, falling 115-102 in their third consecutive defeat.
Game Highlights
- Jalen Green debuted for Phoenix with 29 points, shooting 10 for 20 overall and 6 for 13 from three-point range.
- Devin Booker contributed 24 points, helping the Suns dominate in the third quarter.
- Cam Christie scored 17 off the bench; John Collins added 13; Bogdan Bogdanovic scored 12.
Player Absences
The Clippers were without Harden (averaging 23.3 points) due to personal reasons and Leonard (24.3 ppg) due to a right ankle sprain.
Green's Impact
Jalen Green, returning after missing eight games with a hamstring injury, played 23 minutes and was efficient, shooting 50% from the field and hitting six three-pointers from 13 attempts.
Context
The Suns showcased strong perimeter shooting, making 19 three-pointers—just one shy of their season high—while assembling their roster via a significant offseason trade involving Kevin Durant.
**Author's summary:** The Clippers continue to struggle with injuries, falling behind early as Phoenix's sharpshooting and Green's return highlight a pivotal game in both teams' seasons.