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USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

The Denver Nuggets take on the Los Angeles Clippers in a highly anticipated matchup. With the two teams being attacking powerhouses, this intense clash promises to deliver an action-packed matchup for the fans. The Mile High City and the City of Angels have a historic rivalry with the Nuggets holding a dominant record against the Clippers in recent encounters. Even according to the standings, Denver is third with a record of 14 wins and 7 losses. However, on the other hand, LA is ninth with 9 wins and 10 losses.

So, in the upcoming match against these historic rivals, what are the expected lineups for both teams?

Expected lineups for the Nuggets and LA Clippers?

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In the last eight matches played between the two teams, the Denver Nuggets have always emerged victorious. Due to that, they have already asserted pressure on the Clippers. But now, as the Clippers have made some roster changes and brought in some star power, they have found their footing in the league. Despite their shaky start with James Harden, the team has found its rhythm and a place for The Beard in their squad, but still are not consistent with their performances.

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However, an injury threat looms on both sides with the Nuggets having 3 players and the Clippers having 2. Due to a knee injury, Vlatko Cancar from the Nuggets is out indefinitely, however, Aaron Gordon and Jamal Murray are listed as probable and questionable on the injury report. On the other side, Brandon Boston and Mason Plumlee are ruled out of the game due to their ongoing recovery from their respective injuries.

So after all the injured players are ruled out, the expected rosters for both teams are as follows. For the Nuggets, in the absence of Aaron Gordon or Jamal Murray, the Nuggets can look to Julian Strawther or Justin Holiday for replacement. The remaining part of the starting lineup includes Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Nikola Jokic, and Michael Porter Jr. On the other side of the court, the Clippers’s starting lineup includes Terrance Mann, James Harden, Kawhi Leonard, Paul George, and Ivica Zubac making it a formidable offensive roster.

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What was the outcome of the previous encounter?

The Denver Nuggets who were underpowered managed to win against the Clippers by a score of 113-104. Without players like Nikola Jokic, Jamal Murray, and Aaron Gordon, the Nuggets relied on the outstanding play of former Clippers Reggie Jackson and DeAndre Jordan to seal the victory. In a display of his tremendous skill set, Jackson managed to put up 35 points and 13 assists. He could find a rhythm with Jordan, who scored 21 points and 13 rebounds, making them a formidable duo.

USA Today via Reuters

Even though Kawhi Leonard gave an excellent performance of 31 points with Ivica Zubac, who contributed 23 points and 14 rebounds, the Lob City could not outperform the Nuggets. However, in their upcoming clash, they have a chance to seek retribution and show that they are a formidable team and contenders for the NBA Championship.

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