It is the battle of two Western Conference juggernauts as the Los Angeles Lakers face off against city rivals the Los Angeles Clippers tonight at 10 PM EST.
After suffering from two very disappointing losses, the champions Los Angeles Lakers had their backs by the wall as they faced off against the Denver Nuggets. Given that they were also missing superstar LeBron James, the Lakers needed a special performance from Anthony Davis and Co. to break their slump. AD finally looked like he was locked in as he scored a crucial 25 points in the game and was a defensive monster leading the Lakers to a 93-89 victory.
The Clippers meanwhile also broke their streak of three losses as they won their latest game, 105-100, against the Toronto Raptors. Superstar Kawhi Leonard is still getting into rhythm and is back just at the perfect time for the Clippers. Given how competitive the Western Conference has become, the Clippers will be determined to continue their winning form and ultimately trump the Nuggets for the third seed.
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Predictions
The Los Angeles Lakers might be coming off of a victory against the Nuggets, but have a massive challenge ahead of them as they face the Clippers. The Lakers are missing players like LBJ and Schroder in this matchup. With the personnel available, the Clippers surely have an edge in this matchup.
Los Angeles Lakers: Injury updates and lineup prediction
After their latest victory against the Nuggets, the Lakers are now the sixth seed and have matched the Dallas Mavericks for a record of 37 wins and 28 losses. With a tough run of fixtures coming up, defense is the only way out for the champions.
The Lakers will be missing some key players through injuries. Dennis Schroder is out due to the league’s health and safety protocols, while veteran Jared Dudley is out indefinitely with a knee problem. LeBron James is also sidelined due to ankle soreness.
A victory against the Clippers might be tough, but is by no means impossible. It depends on what AD does in this game.
Probable Lineup
Alex Caruso (G)
Kentavious Caldwell Pope (G)
Kyle Kuzma (F)
Anthony Davis (F)
Andre Drummond (C)
Los Angeles Clippers’ injury updates and predicted lineup
With their latest victory against the Raptors, the Clippers have a record of 44 wins and 22 losses. With a handful of games left in the regular season, the Clippers face a massive task at their hand as the Clippers are challenging them for the third seed.
The Clippers might be missing some key players through injuries. Serge Ibaka is out with a back injury. Amir Coffey is sidelined adhering to the league’s health and safety protocols.
Every game is a must win for the Clippers right now if they want to clinch the third seed. Can they clinch the third seed or will they fall short once again?
Probable Lineup
Reggie Jackson (G)
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Paul George (G)
Kawhi Leonard (G)
Marcus Morris Sr. (F)
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Ivica Zubac (C)
Who will win between the Los Angeles Clippers and the Los Angeles Lakers? Let us know in the comments below.