The James Harden era in Los Angeles got off to a turbulent start as the LA Clippers lost six consecutive games. However, the team is looking more cohesive since Russell Westbrook assumed the role of a sixth man. This allowed Harden to get more comfortable in his role as the lead guard. They were on a three-game winning streak before losing their last matchup against the New York Pelicans. Notably, all their victories came against the bottom feeders of Houston and San Antonio (twice). The true test of their new lineup will come when they meet the Dallas Mavericks tonight at the Crypto.com Arena.

The Mavericks boast an impressive 10-5 record, sitting pretty at the third sport in the Western Conference standings. However, they have been struggling as of late, having lost three of their last five games. Therefore, they’ll be looking for a win to boost the team’s morale. The Clippers (6-8), on the other hand, will look to bounce back from their recent loss to the Pelicans. As both teams gear up for tonight’s matchup, let’s take a closer look at their starting lineups.

Projected starting lineups for Clippers vs Mavericks

The LA Clippers are set to feature a healthy starting lineup, comprising James Harden (PG), Terance Mann (SG), Paul George (SF), Kawhi Leonard (PF), and Ivica Zubac (C). Their injury report includes three players. Mason Plumlee will miss the thrilling matchup since he is tending to a serious MCL sprain. Brandson Boston Jr., who has yet to make his season debut, is recovering from a quad injury with no timeline for his return. Xavier Moon, who recently signed a two-way contract with the Clippers, is listed as day-to-day on the injury report.

Dallas will also enter the contest with a healthy and well-rested starting lineup, featuring Luka Doncic (PG), Kyrie Irving (SG), Derrick Jones Jr. (SF), Grant Williams (PF), and Dwight Powell (C). However, they will be shorthanded on the front court. Maxi Kleber is still ruled out due to his toe injury. Meanwhile, Dereck Lively II will be taking some time off after enduring a back contusion during their recent win against the Los Angeles Lakers.

Can the Clippers avenge their previous loss against the Dallas Mavericks?

Tonight’s matchup will be the Clippers’ second meeting with Dallas this season. During their first outing, the struggling Clippers were still figuring out their roles, with all four of their ball-dominant players in the starting lineup. The end result: Dallas secured a win by 18 points, 144-126. However, since then, the Clippers seem to have found their rhythm, with Terance Mann starting instead of Westbrook.

Read More: Who Owns the LA Clippers? ex-Microsoft CEO and the Richest Sports Team Owner in the World

Despite these adjustments, this win will be an uphill battle since the veteran Clippers roster will be playing a back-to-back tonight. On the other hand, the Mavericks will be well-rested after beating the Los Angeles Lakers at home on Wednesday. What are your predictions for tonight’s game? Let us know in the comments below!

Watch This Story :?Hell Bent on Leaving the 76ers, James Harden Still Hopeful of Creating Dream Team With Kawhi Leonard and Paul George