Jazz Beat Clippers, 105-98, in Game 4

The host Utah Jazz took down the Los Angeles Clippers, 105-98, in Game 4 of the
Western Conference first-round playoffs at Vivint Smart Home Arena on Sunday.
Utah (2-2) saw its star big man, Rudy Gobert, return from a knee injury on
Sunday. After going down on the first possession of the series, many expected
that the Jazz would be forced to go without Gobert for the duration of the
series. The French big man came back for a stellar showing on Sunday, however,
as he delivered 15 points and 13 rebounds in just 24 minutes of play. Gobert’s
return to the court was much-needed, as the Jazz were able to see only 10
minutes from All-Star forward Gordon Hayward. Hayward left Sunday’s playoff
action due to food poisoning, according to team officials. Despite the lack of
health for the team, Utah was able to earn its first home playoff victory since
2010. One of the key factors for the Jazz was veteran wing Joe Johnson. After
hitting the game-winner in Utah’s first victory last week, Johnson stepped up in
Hayward’s absence to deliver a team-high 28 points on 12-of-17 shooting. Power
forward Derrick Favors also made a big impact, shooting 7-of-10 for 17 points in
just 24 minutes of action. Los Angeles (2-2) has had its own fair share of bad
luck. A toe injury in Game 3 wound up putting an end to All-Star forward Blake
Griffin’s playoff campaign. The Clippers still have their fair share of star
power, however, with superstar Chris Paul continuing to step up in the playoffs.
Paul neared a triple-double on Sunday, scoring a team-high 27 points to go along
with 12 assists and nine rebounds. Sixth man Jamal Crawford, meanwhile, added 25
off the bench. Griffin’s absence stung for the Clippers, however, as rebounding
was a major factor throughout. Utah held a 42-31 advantage on the boards in the
game. Game 5 will take place back in Los Angeles on Tuesday.