The Inaugural In-Season tournament winners’ upcoming matchup is against the formidable team of the Los Angeles Clippers. However, after showing dominance in the first-ever NBA Cup, the Los Angeles Lakers have been unable to find their rhythm in the regular season and are currently on a 4-game losing streak. In their last 10 games, they have won just 2, placing them in the eleventh position on the Western Conference rankings. The Clippers, on the other hand, have been very impressive this season and are fourth on the Western Conference rankings with a five-game win streak.

And with the Lakers roster being plagued with injuries, the match looks one-sided even before it has begun. The only person who can save the 17x NBA champions is their cornerstone, LeBron James, but is he going to be playing against the Clippers?

LeBron James is questionable against the Clippers

Since the start of the season, injury scares have plagued the 19x All-Star. Per today’s injury reports, LeBron James is questionable to play against their sister city rivals due to a left ankle peroneal tendinopathy. Currently playing his 21st NBA season, the L-Train is carrying his team by giving incredible performances every time he steps on the hardwood. Averaging 25.2 points per game, he is shouldering the responsibility of his team all by himself with little to no support from his team. Even against the Volunteer State, James put up 32 points and even got some support from Anthony Davis who scored 31 points. Despite all that, they suffered a 127-113 loss.

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However, not only Bron, but most of the Lakers’ stars look to be dealing with injuries. According to the injury report, Rui Hachimura is out due to a calf strain. D’Angelo Russell is questionable as he suffered a tailbone contusion against the Minnesota Timberwolves, and even Anthony Davis is probable due to a left ankle sprain/bone bruise. So, looking at their player situation, the Lakers are entering the match with a disadvantage. On top of that, they are facing a team that is on a winning momentum and is crushing every team in its way. If the Purple and Gold continue on this downward spiral, what does it mean for coach Darvin Ham?

Another ‘L’ could be the last for Darvin Ham

With every setback faced by the Lakers, there is added pressure on their head coach, Darvin Ham. Along with this, there is constant criticism from the Lakers fans who are vouching for his dismissal with every loss. While there has been no official confirmation that Ham’s job is on the line, Anthony Irwin, an NBA insider, reports that Sunday’s game against the Clippers is “crucial” for his coaching tenure.

The Clippers have won 14 of their past 16 games. This remarkable run has moved them to fourth place in the Western Conference rankings, demonstrating their tremendous form and efficiency. So, looking at the major differences in performances between the Clippers and Lakers, this match is very important for Ham. If the Lakers are able to secure a win, not only would it boost their morale, but it would also help Ham get rid of some pressure and “supposedly” secure his job.

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