The Suns will collapse into the paint on defense, therefore the Clippers must make them pay by making their outside shots. Offense isn't the key to victory however, defense is. The Suns move the ball exceptionally well and the Clippers must rotate on defense- something the Clippers have trouble with. With their long range shooting ability, Diaw and Marion may force Kaman and Brand outside, freeing up space inside for drives. I'd like to see Livingston on Nash again like last time the Clippers won Vs the Suns. Shaun's quickness, length, and good anticipation should cause trouble for Nash. A combination of Livingston and Ross hounding Nash all game should break up the Suns rhythm.
On a sidenote, regarding Livingston from Espn:
Quote:
How many teams can bring a guard off the bench who can create shots for everyone else AND completely change the flow of the game? Forget about what happens in Round 2 -- this is the one guy who could single-handedly alter the Lakers/Clippers big brother/little brother dynamic in Los Angeles.
And yes, after Games 4 and 5 of the Nuggets series, we need to adjust his ceiling from "Penny Hardaway in the mid-'90s" to "Magic without the charisma".
Not saying he'll get there ... just saying that's the new ceiling.
|
Clippers must remain assertive on defense. There cannot be any extended periods of lax defense, the Suns will punish the Clippers in the duration, and a big lead by the Suns could demoralize the Clips- forcing them to take quick shots and letting the Suns play their fast paced game. If that happens the Clippers will lose.
A little concerned about Clippers not having home court advantage. Makes me wonder if the Clippers can match the Suns energy level- which is critical. But the Clippers have shown many times this season they are up to the task. Also, the Suns have just played a 7 games series and may be tired. Clippers should try to steal the first game, because the benefit of the Suns playing a 7 games series is that they have momentum and are playing well. However, the Suns may be not be as mentally prepared to play the Clippers just yet. That should change after the first game.
Also, have the Clippers been sitting too long? Rest is good and all, but slightly concerned about a young team that hasn't been playing.
GT: Playoffs Round 2- Game 1- Clippers @ Suns 5/8
vs. 
