AP Photo/Matt YorkThe Los Angeles Clippers have not lost their fight against the Phoenix Suns, despite their win of 116 to102 in Game 5 on Monday.The Suns are still in control of the series, however, with a 3-2 lead.The Clippers used a small-ball lineup to their advantage. They made 10 three-pointers, shot 54.8 percent from the foul line and hit 10 threes. Los Angeles was also very efficient inside, with a 58-32 advantage in points in the basket.The Clips also increased their defense in the fourth quarter and held Phoenix to 24 points for the final 12 minutes.Notable PerformersMarcus Morris Sr., SF Clippers: 22 points. Three rebounds, two assists. One stealPaul George, SG Clippers: 41 Points, 13 rebounds and six assists. Three stealsDevin Booker, SG Suns: 31 points. Four rebounds, three assists. Two stealsChris Paul, PG Suns: 22 points; eight assists; three reboundsThe Short-Handed Clippers find a WayClippers were without Kawhi Leonard once more, and Ivica Zubac's strained right MCL put additional strain on an already stretched roster. For the team to survive, Tyronn Lue, head coach, needed several players to step in and support Paul George.Marcus Morris Sr. answered the call, as did Reggie Jackson. Together they scored 34 of L.A.’s 59 points in the first quarter.It is obvious that the Clippers are not happy with this sign. Jackson remained on the gas, even though Morris did slow down at halftime.Even with the combined efforts of Jackson & Morris, Los Angeles continued to place a worryingly heavy burden on George.Although one game won't change the overall narrative about "Playoff P," George showed why so much is expected from him on such a large stage. He was outstanding on Monday and his 20-point quarter in the third quarter was crucial as the Clippers kept the Suns away every time they appeared to be taking over.It remains to be seen how sustainable this model is for the Clippers. Leonard might be able to return and provide crucial support.Los Angeles' chances of recovering from a 3-1 series deficit should not be discounted. Fatigue can become a problem if things continue to drag on.Suns fail to seal the dealThe Clippers only had one center, DeMarcus Cousins, in their rotation Monday with Zubac out. Phoenix had an advantage in the interior, especially with Deandre Ayton having a prominent role in the postseason.The Suns couldn't capitalize on the opportunity and Ayton's offensive impact (10 points) was minimal.Devin Booker scored the second-most points in the series, but it almost didn't matter. Cameron Johnson, who also scored 14 points and went 3-of-3 from beyond their arc, came off the bench. Johnson scored three points in the fourth quarter to pull the Suns within four, 98-94.Phoenix quickly lost the game, and that was how the night ended. Each time the No. Los Angeles was the No. 2 seed, and it never got the last word.It is far too soon to panic. To reach the NBA Finals, the Suns will only need to win one of the two remaining games. Game 5 was a good reminder for those who doubt their ability to overcome the final hurdle.What's next?Both teams will return to Los Angeles on Wednesday for Game 6. Clippers may not have home-court advantage as the Suns won at Staples Center once before.
