Devin Booker’s last two free throws and an interception in the wake of the Clippers’ raise. The last two actions of this first game of the Western Conference final were relatively symbolic of the whole game. First because Booker pulled out the big game. By the stats, of course (40 points, 13 rebounds, 11 assists), but also by the attitude, leader even in the weak moments of the Suns. Then because the Clippers were too clumsy and lost too many balls to hope for anything else in this game.
Paul George on fire
However, after two first quarters which saw no team really gain the upper hand over the other despite the efforts of DeMarcus Cousins (11 points), the Clippers woke up completely in the third quarter. Phoenix had made the hole and led with the biggest gap of the meeting (+ 8). But Paul George was on fire. He scored eight points in a row (34 in total) and brought the Clippers back to tie (76-76). Reggie Jackson (24 points, 6 rebounds) followed with a long shot and allowed Los Angeles to regain the score. The game was finally finding its rhythm. Booker and Torrey Craig (8 points, 6 rebounds) were unleashed to restore the advantage to Phoenix before the inevitable George does not put everyone in a tie (93-93).
Phoenix keeps the beat, not Los Angeles
Unfortunately, the Clippers were not going to be able to maintain this level of play. Absent from the third quarter because of a pain in a knee, Marcus Morris returned to the floor for LA, but the spark was no longer there. The Clippers got plenty of chances, but couldn’t find the circle. The Suns continued their march forward. The Clippers clung to the end, even reducing the gap to two points (116-114) thanks to a Terance Mann finally in success. But one last foul on Devin Booker sealed the fate of this first match.
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