2016 NBA first-round series: Los Angeles Clippers vs Portland Trail Blazers Game 5 preview
The Portland Trail Blazers own one of the most incredible turnarounds this season. After losing four of their five starters to all sorts of deals and the free agency, the team had to endure a new environment with mostly new players in the roster. But that didn't stop them from clinching a playoff spot in the crowded Western Conference, eventually booking a first-round matchup with the team one spot above them, the Los Angeles Clippers.
After losing big time in the first two games at Staples Center, they found some added steam in their home court, managing to keep up and tie the series, 2-2, thanks to a 96-88 victory in Game 3 and a 98-84 rout in Game 4.
The series goes back to Staples Center for Game 5, but the advantage is no longer on the side of the Clippers due to injuries to two of their main gunners in Chris Paul and Blake Griffin. Paul took an early exit in Game 4 after suffering a fractured right hand. Head coach Doc Rivers talked to ESPN.com's Arash Markazi, saying that the injury does not look good. As a matter of fact, Paul may be forced out of the remaining games in the playoffs. Griffin on the other hand reportedly aggravated his quad injury.
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If both players aren't cleared to play in Game 5, the Clippers are in deep trouble, especially if C.J. McCollum and Damian Lillard are able to hit their shots, just like what happened in Game 3 and 4. The Blazers stealing this game may mean the end of the series for the Clips since Portland will have a chance to close it out in Game 6 in their home court.
Game 5 is set for Wednesday, April 27, at the Staples Center and will start at 10:00 pm ET.
