The Suns trailed by 19 entering the fourth but came all the way back thanks to big buckets from Durant and backup guard Collin Gillespie. Phoenix had a 43-22 advantage in the fourth, reviving its playoff hopes.
Gillespie scored 10 points on 4-of-6 shooting, including 2 for 3 from 3-point range, to give the Suns a much-needed spark in the second half. Nick Richards added 16 points on 8-of-10 shooting.
The Clippers lost despite Ivica Zubac’s 35 points — a career high. He added 10 rebounds and shot 15 of 19 from the field. Kawhi Leonard and James Harden both scored 21.
Harden made a 3-pointer with 4:12 left in the third quarter to give the Clippers an 89-66 lead. But then Booker answered with a 3 and the Suns slowly clawed their way back.
Phoenix won all four games against the Clippers this season.
Clippers: Zubac was amazing but it’s a tough loss for the Clippers, who lost ground in the Western Conference playoff race.
Suns: Could this be the moment that turns the season around for the Suns? It’s been a frustrating year in the desert but Tuesday’s comeback gives hope that the team can climb back into the playoff picture. Gillespie might have earned himself a spot in the rotation after a stellar performance.
Gillespie — who has spent a big chunk of this season in the G League — hit a 3-pointer with 36 seconds left to give the Suns a 119-114 lead.
Durant and Gillespie combined for 29 points in the fourth quarter.
Clippers host the Pistons on Wednesday; Suns at Nuggets on Friday.
Source link
