Late Game Collapse
If the Clippers had any chance at victory last night, they were shot by the final frame.
LA surrendered 25 points in the final 7 minutes of the game, mainly to the duo of Joe Johnson and Joe Ingles. Joe x2 combined for 36 of Utah’s 105 points, and 21 of their 28 in the fourth quarter. That’s inexcusable.
It’s times like these where we see the true value of Austin Rivers. A near-elite defender, Rivers’ efforts could’ve been enough to keep Iso Joe from delivering the dagger in Game 1. They also could’ve been enough to prevent the duo from going off in the fashion that they did in last night’s final stretch.
Luckily for us, Game 4 will be Austin’s last playoff absence this year, as he is set to return for tomorrow night’s match-up in LA.
Do you think Rivers will be the missing link for the Clippers? Or will they continue to struggle without the presence of Blake Griffin? Let us know by responding, and be sure to follow us on our social media platforms!