The Clippers have officially become the Underdog That Nobody Wants based on a line move that suggests the much of the betting world sees the Suns cruising to their first Finals appearance since 1993. But it's wroth noting that this series is just a handful of plays from having the records reversed. Los Angeles has to be agonizing over dropping an extremely ugly Game 4 84-40 despite allowing just 34 second-half points. Any offensive spurt would have resulted in a tied series. Provided they don't still feel the hangover two days later, look for them to stay in this to the wire.

The Clippers are facing elimination after an ugly Game 4 in which neither team could get much going offensively. Paul George and Reggie Jackson combined to shoot 13-for-44 from the field, with no other player attempting more than nine shots. This enabled the Suns to win by four despite Chris Paul and Devin Booker shooting a combined 14-for-44. The Clippers are fighting an uphill battle down 3-1 with no Kawhi Leonard (knee). So if the Suns get off to a hot start, the Clippers might pack it in late.

The Clippers look exhausted to me. Paul George and Reggie Jackson are playing heavy minutes. I think not having Kawhi Leonard will really hurt the Clippers in this game. Also, this will be their 14th game in 26 days. Tough. Devin Booker, Chris Paul, and Jae Crowder shot a combined 1 for 14 from beyond the arc In Game 4. Look for a much better shooting performance in a convincing victory at home.

The Suns can clinch a spot in the NBA Finals (Chris Paul has never been there) for the first time since 1993 with a victory in Game 5. They won both games at home to open this series, although they were pretty lucky to take Game 2. I don't like the 5.5-point spread at all -- I'm already seeing some 6-point spreads at other books -- so will use the moneyline. Kawhi Leonard will not be playing for Los Angeles and I believe that seals the team's fate.