The first day of the new year will feature a matchup between the Los Angeles Clippers and the Miami Heat. The Los Angeles Clippers have secured victories in their last two games. Despite this success, they’ve been missing their key forward, Kawhi Leonard, sidelined since December 20 due to a hip injury sustained from a collision with Grant Williams during the game against the Dallas Mavericks. Although he finished the game with 30 points and 10 rebounds, he was listed as questionable before being eventually ruled out in every matchup since.

The Clippers are 2-2 without Leonard in the lineup. However, both of those wins came against the Memphis Grizzlies and Charlotte Hornets. They lost by a rather wide margin against playoff contenders like the OKC Thunder and the Boston Celtics. They face another tough test tonight. Will Kawhi Leonard return to action to help the Clippers get past the Heat?

Kawhi Leonard is probable to play tonight versus the Heat

The Klaw is listed as questionable for tonight’s game against the Heat. Sunday’s practice saw his full participation, signaling a positive trajectory for his potential return tonight. If he gets the green light to take the court on Monday, Amir Coffey is expected to revert to the bench, and Russell Westbrook and Norman Powell might see a dip in their playing time and touches. If he rests tonight, the Clippers are likely going with their starting five of James Harden, Terance Mann, Paul George, Amir Coffey, and Ivica Zubac.

In addition to Leonard, Mason Plumlee is also listed as a game-time decision for Monday’s game versus the Heat due to a knee injury.

Miami Heat injury report

On the other side of the court, the Heat are dealing with an alarming amount of injuries. They will enter tonight’s contest without Jimmy Butler, who sustained a right-foot injury in the third quarter of the loss to the Jazz after returning from a four-game absence due to a strained left calf during the same game. In addition, Miami will also miss the services of Dru Smith (knee) and Josh Richardson (back) in tonight’s game. Furthermore, Haywood Highsmith (jaw contusion), Caleb Martin (ankle), and Kyle Lowry (head) are all listed as day-to-day.

Read More: Paul George on Kawhi Leonard Being Injured: “It’s Not Something That’s Surprising”

Therefore, RJ Hampton might take the place of Kyle Lowry as the starting point guard, while Kevin Lowe might start as a power forward in the absence of Caleb Martin and Haywood Highsmith.

Who do you think will emerge victorious tonight? Let us know in the comments!

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