Utah Jazz vs LA Clippers - 5 things we've learned from the first 4 games of this Western Conference Seminals series | 2021 NBA Playoffs

The LA Clippers decimated the Utah Jazz 104-118 in Game 4 of the Western Conference semi-finals, tying the series 2-2 in the process. The Clippers were down 2-0 in the series but have made a remarkable comeback to ensure parity. The Utah Jazz host Game 5, which takes place at Vivint Arena on Wednesday.

Key observations from the Utah Jazz vs. LA Clippers second-round series

The Utah Jazz vs. LA Clippers series has proved to be a clash of titans, as we have seen superstars like Donovan Mitchell and Kawhi Leonard take over games in this enthralling matchup. With the series hanging in the balance, here are 5 takeaways from this Western Conference showdown between the two title contenders:

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#5 Paul George has managed to live up to the 'Playoff P' moniker

Los Angeles Clippers v Utah Jazz - Game Two

LA Clippers swingman Paul George has been a difference-maker for his team on both ends of the floor in the series against the Utah Jazz. After his struggles in Game 1, it seemed like George was going to have another dismal outing with Joe Ingles guarding him (Ingles had troubled George in the OKC Thunder vs. Utah Jazz series in 2018).

Paul George 31 PTS - 9 REB - 4 AST - 45% FGKawhi Leonard 31 PTS - 7 REB - 3 AST - 47% FGClippers tie the series 🔥 pic.twitter.com/li7RpzcflF

— NBA Central (@TheNBACentral) June 15, 2021

However, George bounced back from the disappointment of Game 1 and has managed to average 27 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists on 44% shooting from the deep. Paul George's defensive versatility has been another key asset for the LA Clippers, and they will need him to play with the same intensity if they are to prevail in this series.

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#4 The LA Clippers have found a way to attack Rudy Gobert in the last two games

Utah Jazz v Los Angeles Clippers - Game Four

Rudy Gobert pulled off successive defensive masterclasses in Games 1 and 2, packing the paint and restricting the LA Clippers to attempts from the perimeter. Gobert was +5 and +14 in the first two games, with his clutch block on Marcus Morris in Game 1 becoming a part of the highlight reel.

RUDY GOBERT BLOCKS MORRIS FTW 🤯 pic.twitter.com/u5XhUIVFn3

— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) June 9, 2021

However, Tyronn Lue's decision to go small in the last two games has paid dividends, as Rudy Gobert has been forced to come out of the paint and guard on the perimeter at times. Gobert's lack of lateral quickness and size makes him a vulnerable defender when he is on the perimeter, and the LA Clippers have taken full advantage of that.

#3 The Utah Jazz miss Mike Conley

Denver Nuggets v Utah Jazz

Apart from star shooting guard Donovan Mitchell, Mike Conley is the only other Utah Jazz player who can create shots for himself and his teammates. When Mitchell sits out, the Utah Jazz lack a primary shot-creator, with Joe Ingles simply not being as effective. Conley has averaged 17 points and 8 assists in the five playoff games he has played, apart from being positive on defense.

Conley has missed all four games due to a hamstring problem, and his teammates - along with head coach Quin Synder - will be hoping that he can suit up for the remainder of the series.

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#2 Reggie Jackson has been a revelation for the LA Clippers

Los Angeles Clippers v Utah Jazz - Game Two

Reggie Jackson averages close to 15 points and 3 assists per game, making 57% of his field-goal attempts from the deep. Jackson has emerged as a reliable third-option on a team with a superstar duo and good role players. Head coach Tyronn Lue has therefore made Jackson a regular fixture in the LA Clippers' closing lineup.

Jackson has held his own on the defensive side of the ball as well, and the Utah Jazz will have to devise a plan to stop him if they are to prevail in this series.

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#1 The team that shoots better from three-point range will win the series

Utah Jazz v Los Angeles Clippers - Game Four

The Utah Jazz shot 51% from downtown in Game 2 as opposed to the LA Clippers' 36% and ended up winning the match by a margin of six points. In Game 3, the LA Clippers won the 3-point shooting battle, making 53% of their attempts from the deep. The result was a blowout, as the LA Clippers took the third match of the series 106-132.

The LA Clippers and Utah Jazz finished the regular season as the first and fourth-best three-point shooting teams in the league. It has become clear that the outcome of the series will hinge on the three-point shooting performance of the two sides.