The Western Conference first-round matchup between the Jazz and Clippers could
have a revolving-door feel Sunday for Game 4, with Blake Griffin out and Rudy
Gobert possibly back in.
The Jazz center suffered a hyperextended knee on the first play of the series
and missed the next two, but had his condition upgraded twice overnight, from
“doubtful” on Saturday to “questionable” on Sunday morning, hours before Game 4.
This is significant for a few reasons: The Clippers will be short-handed for as
long as they’re in the playoffs, and the Jazz could use a boost as they find
themselves down 2-1 in the best-of-seven.
Gobert’s absence has been costly, despite Utah winning Game 1. The Clippers have
attacked the basket constantly and come away with solid results; Gobert is the
NBA’s premier shot-blocker and also solid on the boards, getting nearly 13 per
game during the season.
Gobert did not participate in his team’s morning practice Sunday and was held
out of full-scale practices since the injury. However, he apparently informed
team officials that his condition has improved somewhat drastically, the only
reason the Jazz would issue a pair of upgrades.
