The Clippers take on the Utah Jazz in a must-win game on Friday, looking to take the series to Game 7.
After struggling to a 96-92 defeat in Game 5, the LA Clippers are staring at a first round exit for a second straight year. In order to avoid that, they will need to be at their very best against a side that has turned it on in the playoffs.
Despite losing three out of four games against the Clippers in regular season, the Utah Jazz have surprised many by taking the game to their more illustrious opposition. They have been led by veterans Joe Johnson and George Hill. Johnson has been the star of the show and has made critical baskets at important times. The Clippers have failed to deal with the 35-year old forward.
With Blake Griffin out for the rest of postseason, the Clippers are heavily reliant on Chris Paul. And while he has averaged 27 points, 10.4 assists and 5.6 rebounds in the postseason, his teammates have simply not been consistent enough. Doc Rivers lamented:
"“We have to have the desperation in going up to Utah and win it,” Clippers coach Doc Rivers said. “We’ve won there before. We’ve won in the playoffs there before. This team is not going to quit, I can tell you that.”"
A big boost for them could be the return of the unpredictable Austin Rivers. While Rivers could not impact Game 5, his play-making and movement could help his side in Salt Lake City. Another positive for the Clippers is J.J. Redick’s return to form in Game 5. After being anonymous in the first 4 games, Redick scored 26 points in Wednesday’s loss.
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If the Clippers are to win this series, they will need each and every one of their players to step up on Friday and then on Sunday. Otherwise they will have to lament on yet another season of what could have been.