Clippers Injury Update: Big-3 Receive Massive Boost, Coach Lue Suffers Unfortunate Twist of Fate

The Los Angeles Clippers have had a stellar 2023-24 season. They currently occupy the 4th spot in the Western Conference standings, with 40 wins from 61 games. However, the Clippers would look to end the season on a high and gain a slight advantage for the postseason. They face the Chicago Bulls in their next match at the Crypto.com Arena. The game is scheduled to tip off by 4:00 PM, Eastern Time.

Fans of the Los Angeles Clippers can rejoice, as James Harden, Paul George, and Kawhi Leonard have all been declared fit to play in tonight’s crucial game against the Bulls. However, the same can’t be said about head coach Ty Lue. While Lue has made the journey to the arena, he wasn’t present for the pre-game press conference. According to the Athletics’ Law Murray, Ty Lue is “not feeling well.” Instead, assistant head coach Dan Craig addressed the media and answered questions.

While Ty Lue’s absence from the sidelines may be concerning, the positive update of the big three being declared fit would undoubtedly boost the morale of both the team and the fans. Before Dan Craig clarified their status, all three were listed as questionable for the game against the Bulls. However, the Los Angeles Clippers will miss the presence of Russell Westbrook. Westbrook suffered a fractured left hand against the Washington Wizards on 1st March.

He has undergone a successful surgery on his fractured left hand, and reports have suggested that he may return before the start of the playoffs. According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, “There’s an expectation that he can be back with this team before the playoffs.” In his first full season as a Clipper, Westbrook has come off the bench and led the Clippers’ second unit. However, in his absence, Ty Lue has entrusted Bones Hyland with the job.

Predicted Lineups: Los Angeles Clippers vs Chicago Bulls

The Los Angeles Clippers have been one of the standout teams of the season. After enduring a rough start, the Clippers have looked like genuine title contenders. Furthermore, Harden, Paul George, and Kawhi have all settled into their respective roles. They go into tonight’s game as heavy favorites. The Clippers could start the game with James Harden, Terence Mann, Paul George, Kawhi Leonard, and Ivica Zubac.

Read More: Clippers News: Paul George’s Homecoming in Doubt, as LA Decides the Future of the 9X All-Star After Kawhi Leonard

On the contrary, the Chicago Bulls have struggled to impose themselves this season. Their performances this season could be summed up as mediocre at best. Despite mediocre performances, the Bulls still have a chance to secure a playoff berth. However, they would have to win games consistently from now on. The Bulls could begin the game with Coby White, Ayo Dusunmo, Alex Caruso, DeMar DeRozan, and Nikola Vučević.