The Phoenix Suns defeated the visiting Los Angeles Clippers, 120-114, in Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals at Phoenix Suns Arena on Sunday.

While superstars like Chris Paul (COVID protocols) and Kawhi Leonard (knee) missed this key Game 1, Phoenix was still able to prevail. It was tight throughout though, taking 13 ties and 20 lead changes to determine a winner, with neither club ever leading by more than 10 points. A 27-21 fourth quarter ultimately decided things for Phoenix, starting on a 12-2 run across the opening four minutes and never relinquishing the lead after that. The Suns shot 55 percent from the field while holding the Clippers to 45 percent shooting. In addition, Phoenix out-assisted Los Angeles, 31-23, while winning the points in the paint battle, 54-34.

The Clippers (0-1) were led by Paul George, tallying 34 points, four rebounds, five assists and two steals. Reggie Jackson amassed 24 points, six rebounds and four assists. Nicolas Batum totaled five points, 10 rebounds and three assists. DeMarcus Cousins led the bench with 11 points and four boards while Rajon Rondo registered eight points, three rebounds and seven assists.

The Suns (1-0) were led by Devin Booker, who recorded the first triple-double of his career. He collected 40 points, 13 rebounds and 11 assists. Deandre Ayton accrued 20 points, nine rebounds and two assists. Mikal Bridges had 14 points, two assists and two blocks while Cameron Payne provided 11 points, three rebounds and nine assists in a spot start.

Game 2 will be back in Phoenix on Tuesday. The status of Paul and Leonard are unsure but the expectation is that neither guy will be ready to play that pivotal matchup.