Depleted Clippers Fade After Halftime in Loss to Suns
Ivica Zubac scored 23 points as the Clippers played without stars Kawhi Leonard and James Harden, but Phoenix surged in the third quarter, leading to a 115-102 defeat—Los Angeles's third straight loss.
Game Highlights
- Jalen Green debuted for Phoenix, scoring 29 points.
- Devin Booker contributed 24 points in the Suns' victory.
- Clippers led 51-48 at halftime but collapsed in the second half.
- Other Clippers' scorers included Cam Christie (17 off bench), John Collins (13), and Bogdan Bogdanovic (12).
Player Absences and Impact
The Clippers were without Harden, who missed the game for personal reasons, and Leonard, sidelined with a right ankle sprain. Both are key contributors, averaging 23.3 and 24.3 points per game respectively.
Jalen Green’s Performance
Green, returning from a right hamstring strain that kept him out for the Suns' first eight games, played 23 minutes and shot 50% from the field (10 for 20), including 6 of 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 from Phoenix to Houston.
Author’s Summary
The Clippers’ injury woes and key absences have disrupted their early-season rhythm, while the Suns’ strong third quarter and sharpshooting secured a convincing win.