On January 19th, Beijing time, the NBA regular season continues to unfold. The Clippers have recently regained momentum and achieved a three-game winning streak, moving up to fifth in the Western Conference. In their next game, they will face a crucial matchup against the sixth-placed Lakers, which is also the first Los Angeles derby of the season. Prior to the game, the Clippers updated their injury report, with four players listed as questionable due to illness, including James Harden.
After a three-game winning streak, the Clippers' morale has been greatly boosted, and the team atmosphere remains positive. Despite some trade rumors, the players remain focused on the games. In the past two games, they have achieved significant victories, including a 59-point win over the Nets, setting a new record for the largest point differential in team history. Following that, they won by 29 points against the Trail Blazers in a back-to-back game, accumulating an impressive 88-point margin over two games, demonstrating their excellent competitive form.
However, the Clippers are about to face a challenging schedule, playing four games in the next five days, including two back-to-back matches. Fortunately, all these games are at home, so there's no need for travel. The first game will be against the Lakers at home, marking the first Los Angeles derby of the season. With both teams currently ranked fifth and sixth in the West, the game is expected to be particularly intense. However, the Clippers have encountered trouble before the game, as Harden has fallen ill.
Recently, several NBA players have been affected by illness, leading to many absences from games. Unfortunately, it's now Harden's turn. He is currently listed as questionable with a 50% chance of playing, depending on his condition tomorrow. If he doesn't recover, there's a possibility he might miss the game. Harden's performance this season has been outstanding, and he is key to the Clippers' position near the top of the Western Conference. His absence would significantly impact the team.
Fortunately, Leonard is set to return after missing the last back-to-back game, allowing him ample rest. His playing time has been increasing, and he can now handle the ball and play one-on-one on the court. As Leonard gradually returns to form, the Clippers' strength continues to grow.
In addition, a total of four players are questionable for the Clippers' upcoming game, including Harden, Zubac, Powell, and Dunn, all starters. If all of them were to miss the game, it would be a significant challenge for the team.