The battle for LA is closing in. The Los Angeles Clippers will face off against the Los Angeles Lakers for the third time this season. The Purple and Gold, despite their struggles, won both of the previous contests played this season. The Clippers, who are 4th in the Western Conference, will be out for vengeance. Since overcoming the early hurdles, the side has been nearly perfect. And tonight might be their best shot to get one back in the LA rivalry.

The Clippers hold a major upper hand coming into the game tonight. Their ‘Big 3’ of Paul George, Kawhi Leonard, and James Harden are healthy and ready to roll. The only notable absence they will have to deal with is center Ivica Zubac, who is suffering from a right calf strain. Frankly, it will be the least of their worries considering the Lakers’ long injury list.

Previously, the Purple and Gold announced LeBron James missing the LA showdown tonight. But what is the status of D’Angelo Russell and Rui Hachimura?

Lakers will have D’Angelo Russell and Rui Hachimura

The Lakers have been sort of chaotic over the past few weeks. The In-Season Tournament win somehow was a bad omen for the team. They are hanging by a thread, acquiring the 9th seed in the West. It was only in the past four games that things started to look hopeful again. The trio of D’Lo, James, and Davis all contributed majorly to them winning three of their past four games.

But now, in one of their toughest challenges this late into the season, they will be without their King. Moreover, Anthony Davis and Jared Vanderbilt are also listed as probable on the injury list for the Lakers. Doubts are looming over most of their crucial stars. With two down, the question LA fans are wondering is if D’Angelo Russell and Hachimura will play against the Clippers. Luckily for Laker Nation, both of these stars do not appear on the Lakers injury list.

Russell has been especially vital in the Lakers’ resurgence. Over the past three games, he has scored 20 or more in all contests. The former Nets guard has been more aggressive and unhesitant in letting his offensive gifts flow free. Hachimura has been the life of the bench since Austin Reaves moved back to the starting lineup. His ability to space the floor and also defend at an elite level makes him indispensable in the absence of James.

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The 17-time champions will most likely line up with Anthony Davis, Taurean Prince, Austin Reaves, D’Angelo Russell, and Rui Hachimura when facing the Clippers tonight. Given AD and Russell’s recent ferocity, the Lakers might have a slight chance to keep an undefeated record against their city rivals this season. Do you think LeBron James not being there is too much for the Lake Show? Let us know in the comments below.

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