Kawhi Leonard's absence costs Clippers Game 3 against Suns

The Los Angeles Clippers faced a tough setback in Game 3 of the Western Conference Finals against the Phoenix Suns, as star forward Kawhi Leonard was forced to sit out due to a knee injury. The Clippers struggled to find their rhythm without Leonard and fell to the Suns by a score of 106-92.

Injury Update: Leonard's Status Uncertain for Game 4

Leonard was listed as out on the Clippers' injury report prior to Game 3, with a right knee sprain. The team did not provide any further details on the severity of the injury, or a timetable for his return. Clippers head coach Tyronn Lue said after the game that he did not have any update on Leonard's status for Game 4, and that the team would have to wait for further evaluation.

Leonard's Absence a Huge Blow for Clippers

Leonard has been a key player for the Clippers throughout the playoffs, averaging 30.4 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game. He has been especially dominant in the last two series, scoring 45 points in Game 6 of the first round against the Dallas Mavericks, and 39 points in Game 6 of the second round against the Utah Jazz. Leonard has also been a force on the defensive end, using his length and athleticism to disrupt opponents' offenses.

Without Leonard, the Clippers looked lost on both ends of the court in Game 3. They shot just 32.5% from the field, and were outscored by 20 points in the second half. Paul George, who has been Leonard's co-star during the playoffs, struggled to carry the load, scoring just 27 points on 9-of-26 shooting. The Clippers will need to regroup quickly if they hope to even the series in Game 4.

Suns Take Advantage of Leonard's Absence

The Suns, meanwhile, took advantage of Leonard's absence to seize control of the series. Devin Booker led the way with 28 points, while Deandre Ayton dominated inside with 15 points and 10 rebounds. The Suns also got key contributions from their bench, as Cameron Payne scored 29 points and Torrey Craig added 11 points and 10 rebounds.

The Suns' victory in Game 3 was a testament to their depth and resilience. They were able to weather the storm of the Clippers' early lead, and stay composed even when the Clippers made a run in the third quarter. The Suns' defense was especially impressive, as they held the Clippers to just 36 points in the second half.

Clippers' Road to Recovery

The Clippers will need to make some adjustments if they hope to bounce back in Game 4. They will likely need to rely on their role players more heavily, especially Reggie Jackson, who has been a key contributor off the bench. The Clippers will also need to step up their defense, and find ways to slow down Booker and Ayton.

The Clippers have faced adversity before in these playoffs, and have shown that they have the resilience to bounce back. However, Leonard's injury adds another layer of complexity to an already difficult series. The Clippers will need to find a way to win without their superstar, or risk falling behind in the series.

Conclusion

Kawhi Leonard's absence was felt keenly by the Los Angeles Clippers in Game 3 of the Western Conference Finals against the Phoenix Suns. The Clippers struggled without their superstar, and fell to the Suns by a score of 106-92. Leonard's status for Game 4 is uncertain, and the Clippers will need to regroup quickly if they hope to even the series. The Suns, on the other hand, took advantage of Leonard's absence to seize control of the series and will look to continue their momentum in Game 4.

Despite the loss, the Clippers have a chance to bounce back and level the series. They have a talented roster that is capable of overcoming adversity, and they will need to draw on their experience to do so. However, they will need to play with greater intensity and focus in order to succeed.

In the end, this series will likely come down to which team can execute better and make the most of their opportunities. With Leonard's status uncertain for Game 4, the Clippers will need to find a way to rally around their remaining players and overcome the odds. The Suns, meanwhile, will look to build on their Game 3 victory and take another step closer to the NBA Finals. It promises to be an exciting and hard-fought battle between two talented teams.

Reference: https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/36247669/clippers-kawhi-leonard-knee-misses-game-3-loss-suns