The Los Angeles Clippers are emerging as one of the most formidable forces in the league. The fourth-seeded Clippers boast a six-home-game winning streak with an impressive 17-4 overall record this season. Now they look forward to extending it to seven games when they meet the Brooklyn Nets at Chase Center later.
However, a win tonight might be an uphill battle against the Nets, who are coming off a massive 130-112 win over the Lakers on Friday, snapping a four-game losing streak. So, as the Clippers gear up to face the Nets for the second time this season, who will start the game for both sides?
Los Angeles Clippers vs. Brooklyn Nets: Predicted starting lineups
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The Clippers are comparatively healthy this season, with all four All-Stars playing a significant number of games together. But they suffered a significant setback, with Ivica Zubac sustaining a right calf strain, which could potentially keep him out of action for at least the next four weeks. Even though the Clippers will feel the lack of depth at the center position, they have Mason Plumlee and backup center Daniel Theis to fill in for Zubac. In light of the injuries, the Clippers can start the game with – James Harden, Terance Mann, Paul George, Kawhi Leonard, and Mason Plumlee.
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On the other side of the court, the Nets will continue to be without Ben Simmons, who has only suited up for six games this season due to his lower back issue. Further, Dariq Whitehead (left shin stress) and Day’Ron Sharpe (hyperextended left knee) are also ruled out for the Sunday night showdown. Therefore, the Nets could start the game with Spencer Dinwiddie, Mikal Bridges, Cameron Johnson, Dorian Finney Smith, and Nicolas Claxton.
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Can the Nets secure a second straight win against the LA Clippers?
The Nets overpowered the Clippers with a 100-93 win in their first meeting of the season. However, the Clippers have undergone a massive transformation since figuring out how to play their cards right. They boast the best record in the league since December, winning 18 of their last 22 games. Moreover, the Clippers will be entering the game well rested, having enjoyed four days off since their win over the Thunder on Tuesday night—a boon for a veteran team like the Clippers.
Meanwhile, the Nets will be playing their second game in three nights to close out their West Coast trip. And as things currently stand, the Nets have lost nine of the last 11 games, dropping to the 11th spot in the East. They are just 0.5 games shy of a play-in spot. Therefore, a win tonight is essential for them to get back into the playoff picture.
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Do you think the Nets will be able to maintain the momentum from the previous game? Or will the Clippers even the season series tonight? Let us know in the comments!
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