Chris Paul, Bradley Beal, and a Surprise Lead Our Clippers vs. Suns Prediction
The Los Angeles Clippers face the Phoenix Suns in the lone NBA matchup on Thursday night before a full Emirates NBA Cup slate kicks off Friday. Tipoff is scheduled for 9:00 p.m. as both teams look to improve their early-season form.
Game Preview
The Clippers enter this Western Conference contest with key absences. James Harden is out due to personal reasons, and Kawhi Leonard remains sidelined with an ankle issue. Meanwhile, the Suns will miss forward Dillon Brooks for the sixth consecutive game due to a groin injury.
There is some optimism for Phoenix, as guard Jalen Green — yet to make his debut this season — is listed as probable after recovering from a hamstring problem.
Recent Performance
When these teams met earlier in Los Angeles, the Clippers earned a dominant 27-point victory. At home, the Clippers have a 3–2 record, but they’ve struggled significantly on the road. Their two road losses were both blowouts — Utah topped them by 21, and the Warriors won by 19 in San Francisco.
The Suns haven’t fared much better on the road, remaining winless away from home. However, they boast a strong 3–1 record in Phoenix, which includes a notable victory over the Spurs.
Key Players to Watch
- Chris Paul – expected to lead the Clippers’ backcourt in Leonard’s absence.
- Bradley Beal – a crucial scoring threat who will look to exploit the Suns’ perimeter defense.
- Jalen Green – the potential X-factor if he returns to action for the Suns.
“With both teams missing stars, depth and energy from the role players may decide this one.”
NBA Picks Insight
Analysts are focusing on prop play opportunities for Chris Paul and Bradley Beal on PrizePicks, as both guards are expected to log high-usage roles. The Suns’ home advantage and potential return of Green could balance the contest despite their recent inconsistencies.
Author’s Summary: A short-handed Clippers squad meets an equally challenged Suns team, setting up an unpredictable showdown where guard play may define the outcome.