Opinion
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Clash at Footprint Center: LA Clippers Set to Battle Phoenix Suns

As the LA Clippers gear up for their next challenge against the Phoenix Suns at the Footprint Center, fans are eager to see if their team can maintain the momentum from their recent performances. The Clippers have shown a remarkable ability to dominate on both ends of the court, and this upcoming game on April 17 promises to be a testament to their resilience and skill.


PHOENIX, AZ - APRIL 9: Russell Westbrook #0 of the LA Clippers drives to the basket during the game against the Phoenix Suns on April 9, 2023 at Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Barry Gossage/NBAE via Getty Images)

In their last encounter with the Suns on April 9, the Clippers emerged victorious with a score of 119-114. This win was not just about outscoring; it was about strategic gameplay and effective execution. With an impressive field goal percentage of 49 and converting 57 percent from two-point range, they've demonstrated that they can find ways to score efficiently. Their points in paint stood at a staggering 68, showcasing their ability to penetrate defenses and finish strong at the rim.


The bench depth has been another critical factor for LAC's success, contributing an outstanding 53 points in that game. This depth will be crucial as they face PHX once again. However, one area where LAC could improve is beyond the arc; shooting only around 22 percent from three-point land last time means there's room for growth.


PHOENIX, AZ - APRIL  9: Terrence Ross #8 of the Phoenix Suns shoots the ball during the game against the LA Clippers on April 9, 2023 at Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Kate Frese/NBAE via Getty Images)

On defense, LAC held up well against PHX's attempts during their previous meeting. They'll need that same defensive tenacity again as they face a Suns team that shot nearly 38 percent from three-point range in that game.


The Phoenix Suns are no pushovers either; with a home-court advantage this time around and having led for over half of their last matchup against LAC (32:20 minutes), they will look to capitalize on any slip-ups by LAC. The Suns' assist-to-turnover ratio stood at an impressive figure above four in that game compared to LAC’s ratio slightly above two – indicating PHX’s playmaking efficiency could pose challenges.


PHOENIX, AZ - APRIL 9: Damion Lee #10 of the Phoenix Suns shoots the ball during the game against the LA Clippers on April 9, 2023 at Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Barry Gossage/NBAE via Getty Images)

Looking ahead, fans should expect another close contest between these Western Conference contenders. The LA Clippers must leverage their strengths – attacking inside and utilizing bench players effectively while improving perimeter shooting – if they want another win under Coach Tyronn Lue's leadership.


With anticipation building up for this matchup between two formidable teams vying for playoff positioning, fans should mark their calendars for April 17th when these titans clash at Footprint Center in Phoenix at midnight Eastern Time (ET). For those who cannot make it to Arizona, catch all the action live on TNT (channel 245), BSSC (channel 693) or BSAZ (channel 686) depending on your location.

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