Game 4: Dallas Mavericks vs LA Clippers
If the season had restarted straight into the postseason, the Clippers would have played Luka, Kristaps, and the Dallas Mavericks.
The Clippers and Mavs only played twice this year (both games in Dallas). In the first meeting, the Clippers were without Landry Shamet and in the last meeting, they were without Paul George and lost Patrick Beverley to a groin injury in the first half.
LA would win both games. Assuming both teams are still strong and healthy for this game, the Clippers should be able to contain Luka, just like they have in the past, and come away with their 3rd straight game.
Record: (3-1, 47-21)
Game 5: Portland Trail Blazers vs LA Clippers
This game will be similar to the noon games that the Clippers have had in the past. This will be the earliest start time for the Clips as they will be playing at 10 AM PST/1 PM EST.
The last time the Clippers played a game at that time was last season at Madison Square Garden against the Knicks.
Portland is looking to secure that 8th seed without the services of veteran Trevor Ariza, who has opted not to play in Orlando due to the impending custody battle over his son.
Damian Lillard being defended by Patrick Beverley will a fun matchup to watch as hopefully, TNT will have player audio available throughout the whole game.
The X-Factor for Portland in this game is getting Hassan Whiteside touches down below. He has killed the Clippers defense in the past with his height and back to the basket scoring.
The depth of the Clippers will prove too much to Portland as they rely on Lillard and McCollum to play 38 minutes a night.
Clippers win their 4th straight game and aren’t looking back.