Chris Paul available to play in Game 3 vs. Clippers [UPDATE]

Phoenix Suns PG Chris Paul plans to return to the lineup in Game 3 of the Western Conference Finals against the Los Angeles Clippers on Thursday night, Chris Haynes of Yahoo Sports reported on Wednesday afternoon. Paul was placed into health and safety protocols last week after testing positive for Covid-19. The veteran PG was ruled out for the first two games of the Conference Finals, both wins for Phoenix to take a 2-0 lead in the series.

Update: CP3 is going to be available to play in Game 3 vs. the Clippers, as expected.

With Paul sidelined, the Suns started Cameron Payne for each of the firs two games vs. LA. Payne performed well, scoring a total of 40 points with 18 assists over the two games, including 29 points to lead the Suns to their 104-103 win in Game 2 on Tuesday night. With CP3 expected to return, we can expect Payne to go back to the bench, but maintain a crucial role in the rotation as backup guard.

The Suns are -910 on the series line on DraftKings Sportsbook after winning Game 2. The Clippers should have made it an even series 1-1 had it not been for two missed free throws by Paul George. The Clippers also came back down 2-0 in each of the previous two series to win. That isn’t to say the Clippers are going to come back this time. But there is reason to consider L.A. at +575 on the series line if you think the team can bounce back at home. The Clippers are getting 1 point at home in Game 3 on the spread as of Wednesday.

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