LOS ANGELES , United States (AFP) — The Portland Trail Blazers took full advantage of the Los Angeles Clippers injury woes on Wednesday to score a convincing 108-98 victory and claim a pivotal 3-2 series lead in their Western Conference playoff battle.
The Clippers, rocked by a double injury blow to stars Chris Paul and Blake Griffin, fought bravely to stay in touch heading into the fourth quarter at the Staples Center.
But as the game reached its critical phase, Portland stretched away to seal a deserved win which leaves them needing just one more victory to advance.
CJ McCollum finished with 27 points while Damian Lillard scored 16 of his 22 points in the fourth quarter.
Maurice Harkless added 19 points and 10 rebounds, Allen Crabbe 11 points, and Mason Plumlee and Gerald Henderson contributed 10 points to round off a fine all-round display.
For the Clippers, J.J. Redick finished with 19 points while Jamal Crawford scored 17. DeAndre Jordan added 16 points and 17 rebounds.
The Blazers had lagged by 50-45 at half-time but mounted a 10-0 run at the start of the third period to take a 55-50 lead.
The Blazers opened up a nine-point lead in the third at 71-62 but the Clippers rallied and leveled through two Crawford free throws.
The game was evenly poised at 71-71 at the start of the fourth quarter but a quick burst of scoring by Lillard put Portland in control and set up the win.
Game Six takes place on Friday in Portland.
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