Clippers vs Jazz: Chris Paul takes over Game 3 in Utah

The third edition of Clippers vs Jazz on Friday night turned into a must-see game from Chris Paul.

When the Clippers face adversity, it’s hard to say with confidence that they’ll get through it. Friday was another testament to that, as Blake Griffin left the game early with what appeared to be a toe injury.

After losing the first game of the series, they also lost home court advantage for a minute. Now that they’re back in control at 2-1, it’s theirs to lose again.

Chris Paul got the help that he needed, but it almost wasn’t enough.

Gordon Hayward had a huge night for the Jazz, especially in the first quarter. To open things up, Hayward matched all of Los Angeles with his 21 points in the first frame.

Scoring wise, Los Angeles got 24 of Paul’s 34 in the game after halftime. It was something that the Clippers couldn’t have scripted if they tried.

What matters now is that Chris Paul keeps the momentum going. Depending on what Griffin looks like when, or if, he comes back shouldn’t matter now.

Doc Rivers has to understand that as well. It’s time to depend on Chris Paul as much as you should be able to on any given night. It’s the playoffs, a lot is on the line for this Clippers team, and Chris Paul is right in the thick of all of it.

Moving forward, Los Angeles has to stomp on the Jazz in Game 4. Jamal Crawford let his play speak for itself at moments, but more from him wouldn’t hurt either.

The bottom line is that this is the Chris Paul the Clippers have been waiting for. As long as he stays healthy, he’ll be the difference in this first round series.

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Whether or not that would carry on to the next round is still to be seen.