Chris Paul, Bradley Beal, and a Surprise Lead Clippers vs. Suns Prediction
The Los Angeles Clippers face the Phoenix Suns in the only NBA game scheduled for Thursday, ahead of a full Emirates NBA Cup slate on Friday. The Western Conference matchup tips off at 9:00 p.m.
Game Overview
The Clippers will enter the game short-handed, missing two key players: guard James Harden (personal) and forward Kawhi Leonard (ankle). The Suns will also be without forward Dillon Brooks, who remains sidelined for the sixth consecutive game due to a groin injury.
However, the Suns may gain some momentum with guard Jalen Green (hamstring) expected to return. Green, who has not yet appeared this season, is listed as probable for the matchup.
Recent Performance
When the two teams last met in Los Angeles earlier this season, the Clippers secured a dominant 27-point victory. So far, Los Angeles has been strong at home with a 3–2 record, but they have yet to win on the road and suffered heavy losses in both away games. The Jazz defeated them by 21 points in Utah, and the Warriors outplayed them by 19 in San Francisco.
The Suns face similar struggles on the road, remaining winless away from home, though their 3–1 home record includes a solid win over San Antonio.
Player Focus
- Chris Paul and Bradley Beal are expected to be pivotal for the Clippers’ offensive rhythm.
- Jalen Green’s anticipated return could energize the Suns’ backcourt.
- Both teams must overcome depth issues to maintain consistency in the Western standings.
"The Western Conference clash tips at 9:00 p.m. Below, we'll preview the game and break down three of the top Clippers vs. Suns NBA picks on PrizePicks for Thursday."
Prediction Insight
The Clippers’ home advantage and recent head-to-head dominance give them a slight edge, but the Suns’ potential lineup boost could make this a much closer contest than before.
Author’s Summary: The Clippers and Suns meet in a single-game Thursday spotlight, both seeking consistency amid injuries, with lineup adjustments likely shaping the outcome.