:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/69500324/1233612959.0.jpg)
The Los Angeles Clippers head into a must-win contest in Game 3 against the Phoenix Suns. No team has ever come back from a 3-0 deficit, but the Clippers have overcome 2-0 holes in both previous playoff series and won’t be phased with their current predicament.
Below is a look at a number of predictions ahead of Thursday’s game for the Free $5K DraftKings Pools - Playoff Edition (PHX-LAC).
Suns vs. Clippers Game 3 pool picks
Which team will cover the spread? Clippers +1.5 or Suns -1.5
The home team is the pick here. Expect the Clippers to respond after two losses in Phoenix, including one on a last-second dunk by Deandre Ayton. Paul George will be upset with his missed free throws in that contest, but has the chance to make up for it here.
How many total points will be scored? Over/Under 219.5
The first game went over this line and the second game went under. Both teams were in a rare slump during Game 2, something that shouldn’t be expected to continue in Game 3. The over is the safer play.
Which team will reach 30 points first?
The Clippers are likely to come out of the gate as the more aggressive team, but the Suns will get a boost with Chris Paul’s return. Take the home team to hit 30 points first in what should be another tight game.
Which team will make more 3-pointers?
The Clippers won this battle in both games despite going down 2-0 and things should not change. Los Angeles has had most of its success playing small and shooting triples, especially after Leonard’s departure. Take the Clippers again.
Which player will have more points? Cameron Payne or Reggie Jackson
Jackson is averaging 23.0 points per game since Leonard’s injury. Payne has been great in the last two games, but will see a dip in production with Paul’s return. Jackson is more likely to get opportunities to score offensively, so take LA’s guard here.
Devin Booker points, rebounds and assists? Over/under 41.5
Booker won’t rack up as many assists with Paul’s return, but his point total could skyrocket as a result. The rebounding numbers aren’t great for Booker, so the under is the better play here. Booker went over this line in Game 1 and under in Game 2.
Paul George points, rebounds and assists? Over/under 45.5
George combined for 44 points, rebounds and assists in Game 1 and 38 in Game 2. Unless the forward to go for 40+ points, the under is the safer play. Expect the Suns continue to pressure George and force other players to step up.
Which team will win the 4th quarter?
The Suns won this period in Game 1, but the Clippers had the edge in Game 2. Expect Los Angeles to close this game strong given the stakes and take it to win the fourth quarter.
If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) (IL). Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ/WV/PA/MI), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (NH/CO), 1-800-BETS OFF (IA), 1-888-532-3500 (VA) or call/text TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN). 21+ (18+ NH). CO/IL/IN/IA/NH/NJ/PA/TN/VA/WV/MI only. Eligibility restrictions apply. See draftkings.com/sportsbook for full terms and conditions.