Chris Paul out for Game 1 of Clippers-Rockets series

Chris Paul was absolutely heroic in the Clippers’ Game 7 win over the Spurs, but suffered a left hamstring strain that he played through. Now, with their second-round series against the Rockets about to tip off, head coach Doc Rivers told reporters that Paul will not play.

Chris Paul will not play tonight.

— Arash Markazi (@ArashMarkazi) May 5, 2015

Doc Rivers said he expects Chris Paul back soon, maybe in Game 2, but he knew he would be out tonight after Saturday.

— Arash Markazi (@ArashMarkazi) May 5, 2015

Austin Rivers will likely start but Doc Rivers hasn’t made that call yet.

— Arash Markazi (@ArashMarkazi) May 5, 2015

Doc Rivers said Chris Paul would play if it was Game 7 but he wanted to be more cautious with the short turnaround for Game 1.

— Arash Markazi (@ArashMarkazi) May 5, 2015

With Paul out, the Rockets need to capitalize early. Given the Clippers’ lack of backcourt depth (especially if Austin Rivers starts, as his father hinted he would), this game is right there for the taking for Houston. But it’s good news that Paul’s injury isn’t so serious that he’s been ruled out for Game 2. Hopefully he’s able to play then.