Clippers Lose Game 2: Unable to Stop Rockets Comeback

The Houston Rockets knew full well that their series was on the line in the third quarter, behind by more than 10 points to a Clippers squad that was once again without Chris Paul.  A loss in Game 2 would have put them in a formidable hole as the series would then move on to Staples Center where arguably the leagues best point-guards would likely be awaiting to deliver the final blow.

Instead, the Rockets found the fuel for take-off and were able to secure a 115-109 victory.

Game 2 showed how much the Clippers are missing Chris Paul.

The Clippers attempted to fight their way back when Austin Rivers lost the ball in a crucial possession with less than a minute to go in the fourth quarter.  With the chance to close the Rockets lead to within two, Rivers attempted to cross-over the Houston defense when he lost balance and possession in a crash to the court.

The play delivered the final blow as the Clippers were unable to attempt to close the deficit and the Rockets went on to win the game.

Once again free-throws played a factor with both teams making intentional fouls throughout the game.  DeAndre Jordan had a quieter night in Game 2, making 4 out of 6 free-attempts on the night.  For the Rockets, Dwight Howard made 8 out of an astounding 21 free-throws throughout the game.

Despite his struggles from the line, Howard had a double-double to help lift the team with 24 points and 16 rebounds.  James Harden led the way in points with 35, including a vital 16 in the fourth quarter to help keep the Rockets ahead.

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For the Clippers, Chris Paul’s offensive assistance was definitely missed as Blake Griffin had another double-double with 34 points and 14 rebounds however he had only eight points after half-time.

Jamal Crawford provided the second-highest score for the team with 19 points off the bench, including an important 6 of 7 free-throws.

The Clippers had an important statistic going into Game 3 despite falling to the Rockets.  The Los Angeles bench outscored Houston 31 to 23.  After much criticism regarding the depth of the bench, the Clippers will need that assistance when they return to the Staples Center with Paul.

Austin Rivers entered double figures in Game 2 and his production will be vital to the second unit if Paul returns playing limited minutes.

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The question is, what will the status of Chris Paul be when he returns?  Coach Doc Rivers has said that while Paul is doing better he is “still not moving well.”  When Game 3 tips-off on Friday, Paul will have had six days rest since he injured his hamstring.

If the Clippers choose to sit their starting point-guard then it is vital that they win Game 3 if they are to win the series.

A loss in either Game 3 or 4 would mean the loss of the split that they won in the opening game and leave them with the challenge of winning the majority of their games on the road.

The Clippers championship hopes depend on Chris Paul.  If they are to win the championship then the Clippers will need to get the job done as he gets the rest he needs.

Game 3 of the Clippers-Rockets series takes place on Friday at the Staples Center in Los Angeles at 7:30pt live on ESPN.