The Clippers take on the Spurs at 10:30 p.m. ET.
The Clippers take on the Spurs at 10:30 p.m. ET. REUTERS

Yesterday afternoon the San Antonio Spurs pushed the Los Angeles Clippers to the brink of elimination when they won game three of their Western Conference playoff series 96-86.

Tonight, the Spurs can eliminate the Clippers and punch their ticket for the Western Conference Final against the winner of the Lakers Thunder series.

San Antonio has won 17 straight games, including a 7-0 playoff record. They have also won 28 of their last 30 games dating back to March 21.

Game three of their series featured a wild swing in the first half. At the end of the first the Clippers led 33-11 and it looked like they would establish themselves in the series. But the Spurs had cut the lead to 10 by the half, and after a 24-0 run in the third quarter the Spurs had a lead they would never relinquish.

Despite facing long odds, the veteran Spurs team kept plugging along, playing that uniquely boring style of fundamental team basketball that Gregg Popovich's teams are known for.

That poise paid off with a win that likely eliminated the Clippers. No team in NBA history has come back from a 0-3 deficit and the Clippers, who have lost each of the first three games by at least 10 points don't look poised to be the first.

The Clippers have seen their season derailed by injuries to both of Blake Griffin's knees, and one of his hips, while Chris Paul is also dealing with a hip injury. Clippers swingman Caron Butler has played most of the playoffs with a fractured hand as well.

Though anything can happen tonight, a repeat of the futility and frustration that comes with being a Clipper fan is probably in store this evening.

Where to watch: The game can be viewed online at www.firstrowsports.eu/sport/basketball.html. It will also be broadcast nationally on TNT at 10:30 p.m. ET.

Prediction: The Clippers are gassed. They are tired, hurt, and on the ropes. The Spurs smell blood in the water, and they have guys who know how to finish. This one will be over tonight.

Predicted Score: San Antonio over Los Angeles 101-88