Despite the absence of two-time Finals MVP Kawhl Leonard, the Clippers are still just miracle play short of salvaging a split in Phoenix and this club already has overcome a 2-0 deficit twice in this postseason. They might not be headed toward a third, but the coronation of the Suns might be coming a bit early considering this spread. Paul George had become a borderline infamous playoff failure until now, and he has scored 20 or more in every playoff game. This is a value spot on a Los Angeles club that should still be a slight favorite in Game 3 on Thursday.

The Clippers fell short against Phoenix on Tuesday but took some positives home for Game 3. Look for Los Angeles to continue its defensive intensity against Devin Booker and live with offensive spurts from Cam Johnson, Cameron Payne and Deandre Ayton. With the home crowd backing them, look for the Clippers to close out the final five minutes - which they didn't have a chance to do in Games 1 and 2. Back Los Angeles.

Chris Paul will be back for Phoenix and Kawhi Leonard will not be for Los Angeles. I also wonder if the way Game 2 ended effectively took all the wind out of the Clippers' sails, so to speak. The Suns are on a nine-game winning streak (8-1 ATS -- people ask why sometimes I take the moneyline; the Suns winning Game 2 by just one point and not covering is why. Obviously, not worried about a 1-point spread in regards to covering.) and they aren't running the table through the Finals, but with Paul back I'll take them here. Perhaps the Clips get a token win in Game 4 to avoid a sweep.