Live Game Thread: Brooklyn Nets at Los Angeles Clippers, 8:00 PM EST

Typically, in years past, if the Nets were to embark on a 5-game road trip out west you would have signed up for a 3-2 record. Easily.

Now, if they can beat the Clippers on Sunday night on national TV, they’ll end the trip with a perfect 5-0 record.

Kevin Durant will be out again for the Nets, but, surprise; Nic Claxton is available to play. On the other side of the ball, the Clippers will be at full strength. Meaning, a championship- caliber performance is expected.

WHO: Brooklyn Nets (19-12) at Los Angeles Clippers (22-9)

WHEN: 8:00 PM EST

WHERE: ESPN (national), YES (local), WFAN (radio)

Game Preview.

Brooklyn won the first game earlier this month.

Pace could determine the winner in this one. Brooklyn plays at one of the fastest paces in the league while Los Angeles is at one of the slowest. In the first meeting, the game was only 99 possessions, which fits more with how the Clips play. Brooklyn was able to dig out of an early hole with quality defense and an offensive barrage from the “Big Three.” The Nets have been doing a better job of taking care of the ball lately, which has the effect of making an already dangerous offense even more potent.

We’re in for a 3-point bonanza. The Clips and Nets are currently Nos. 1 and 2 in the Association in three point percentage with LA one percentage point ahead of Brooklyn. Brooklyn takes four more threes a game than Los Angeles, so the advantage may be in their favor slightly.

Even with Durant out, Kyrie Irving will keep the party going for Brooklyn. Irving didn’t have the greatest of games against the Lakers, but it didn’t matter much as the entire team played at an A+ level against the champs. Irving was sensational in the first matchup against the Clippers as he torched Reggie Jackson all game long. Patrick Beverley is back for the Clippers and will likely get the Irving assignment on defense. Pat Bev may trick y’all, but he’s still a capable player.

For more on the Clippers, check out Clips Nation.