NBA Matchup: LA Clippers vs Utah Jazz
Date: 12th June 2021
Time: 8:30 PM ET
The LA Clippers and Utah Jazz have been matched up in the second round of the Western Conference. The Utah Jazz led by Donovan Mitchell secured the first seed and defeated the Memphis Grizzlies in the first round. Therefore, their path to the second round was easiest in the west.
On the other hand, The LA Clippers went through a prolonged and exhausting 7 game series against the Dallas Mavericks in the first round. This Matchup between the two franchises would decide who moves onto the Western Conference Finals
The first two games of the series resulted in the Utah Jazz gaining a dominant 2-0 lead on the LA Clippers. Donovan Mitchell seemed impossible to guard in both games. He scored 45 points in game 1 and 37 in game 2. This scoring performance he displayed allowed for the Jazz to defeat the Clippers consecutively at home. Paul George and Kawhi Leonard got off to a slow start in the first two games of this series. They hope to even this series at home. Clearly, this starts with a win in Game 3.
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LA Clippers vs Utah Jazz Game 3 Prediction
The Utah Jazz had a dominant performance at home. Mitchell was simply amazing and elevated his play in the first two games. However one cannot sleep on this LA Clippers team. They have already proven that they can fight to the end with their backs against the wall. Kawhi Leonard elevated his efficiency in the last series. The Clippers are therefore expected to win game 3. Reggie Jackson, Luke Kennard, Batum, and the rest of the bench are expected to step up in game 3. Paul George has regressed in his play in the first two games of this series. So, he is also expected to step up in game 3.
The Clippers ended this season as one of the top teams in three-point shooting as well as free-throw shooting. However, they only shot 36% from the three-point line in game 2. The Utah Jazz shot 50% from the three-point line. This means the Utah Jazz outshot the Clippers from three-point range 20-11. That pivotal game 2 ended with the final score of 117-111.
The Utah Jazz made twice as many three-pointers and only won by 5 points. Therefore if they struggle shooting on the road in game 3, they are highly susceptible to losing to this Clippers squad. Kawhi Leonard played against the biggest players in the league in the first round, Boban Marjanovic and Kristaps Porzinas.
His next greatest challenge is the 2021 defensive player on the Year Rudy Gobert. Kawhi is expected to have a dominant game 3 despite a somewhat quiet first two games. The Clippers will hope to dominate at home and even the series at 2-2.
Injury Update
LA Clippers
Serge Ibaka- Out for the season ( surgery)
Clippers announce Serge Ibaka underwent back surgery in Los Angeles on Thursday, June 10 and is expected to make a full recovery. Ibaka will miss the remainder of the playoffs.
— Farbod Esnaashari (@Farbod_E) June 11, 2021
Utah Jazz
Mike Conley will be a game-time decision by coach Quinn Snyder
How to watch Clippers vs Jazz?
LA Clippers vs Jazz will be televised nationally on ABC at 8: 30 PM ET. Internation viewers can access the game through the NBA league pass.
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