Clippers vs. Suns NBA Prediction
The Los Angeles Clippers face the Phoenix Suns in a Western Conference matchup tipping off at 9:00 p.m. Thursday. This game stands as the only NBA contest on the slate before a full round of Emirates NBA Cup games on Friday.
Key Players and Team Updates
- The Clippers will be without guard James Harden (personal) and forward Kawhi Leonard (ankle), both ruled out for this game.
- The Suns are missing forward Dillon Brooks (groin) for the sixth consecutive game but hope to receive a boost from guard Jalen Green (hamstring), who is probable despite not playing yet this season.
Recent Team Performance
"When these two teams met in Los Angeles earlier in the season, the Clippers won by 27 points."
The Clippers hold a 3-2 record at home but have struggled on the road, losing both away games decisively: a 21-point defeat by the Jazz in Utah and a 19-point loss to the Warriors in San Francisco.
The Suns also remain winless on the road but boast a 3-1 record at home, which includes a victory over the Spurs.
Top Players to Watch
- Clippers guard Bradley Beal
- Clippers guard Chris Paul
- A surprising forward is also expected to play a key role in this matchup.
Prediction Summary
This game will test both teams' resilience, especially with multiple key players sidelined, making performance from Chris Paul, Bradley Beal, and the unexpected forward crucial for the Clippers.
"The Clippers vs. Suns NBA picks for Thursday highlight contributions from Chris Paul, Bradley Beal, and a surprise forward."
Author's summary: This Clippers-Suns game features key absences, but the Clippers rely on Paul, Beal, and an unexpected forward to secure a crucial Western Conference win.