Although the Clippers' stars played very well on the night, ultimately they were unable to stop the Spurs from executing on the night.
The Spurs led by six points in overtime before Chris Paul made a three-pointer with 44.5 seconds left to cut the Clippers' deficit to three, 107-104. J.J. Redick then attempted a three-pointer to tie the score, but it bounced off the rim.
Blake Griffin led the Clippers with an astounding triple double 29 points, 12 rebounds and 11 assists. Paul had 21 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists. Deandre had 20 points and 15 rebounds but was only 6-17 at the FT line when the Spurs diverted to the Hack-a-Deandre tactic.
Tim Duncan led the Spurs with an efficient 28 points as the Clips were just unable to find an answer for him the whole night. Kawhi Leonard had a strong 23 point showing.
Although the Clippers would prefer to be two games up on San Antonio they will have to live with the result and hopefully try to steal some wins when they visit the Spurs Friday night.
It was clear the Spurs were going to make adjustment and they were evident - they played tighter on Blake Griffin giving him much less breathing room while making CP3 mainly become a passer in the 1st half.
In return the Clips will have to make adjustments. They might have to consider double teaming Tim Duncan if he remains this hot and efficient from the field.
The Clippers did have a chance to win however. The Clippers took their first lead of the fourth quarter, 94-92, after Chris Paul made two free throws with 50.2 seconds left, prompting a large "Cp3" chant from the crowd. However, a Blake Griffin turnover in the games closing stages and 2 clutch Patty Mills free throws allowed the Spurs to send things to OT.
The Clips will have games 3 and 4 in San Antonio to make up for their mistakes at he AT and T centre and hopefully their late game execution will be a step up from what we saw today. If things go well the Clippers could be leading this series again before you know it.
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