Lakers vs. Clippers: After years of sharing the same home court, the Los Angeles Lakers and the L.A. Clippers are set to clash for possibly the final time at the Crypto.com Arena, with the Lakers playing as the visiting team.
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Barring a playoff face-off, the next showdown between the two teams will likely take place at the new Intuit Dome in Inglewood.
This matchup has long been a captivating cross-town rivalry, with recent history favoring the Clippers during the regular season.
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However, the Lakers, led by LeBron James and Anthony Davis, managed to secure victories in the first two meetings of this season, ending the Clippers’ streak of 11 consecutive wins against them.
Lakers vs. Clippers : The Lakers Played Without LeBron James In That Game
The most recent encounter between the two teams occurred on Jan. 23, resulting in a 127-116 victory for the Clippers. Notably, the Lakers played without LeBron James in that game.
With both James and Davis available for the season finale, this game holds significant importance following a disappointing loss to the Phoenix Suns.
Unfortunately for the Clippers, they will be without Paul George due to a knee injury, along with starting center Ivica Zubac, who is battling an illness.
While this may detract from the excitement of the matchup, it presents an opportunity for the Lakers to bounce back.
In their previous meeting, the Lakers struggled defensively against the Clippers’ potent offense. Without George, the Clippers will look to James Harden and Kawhi Leonard to carry the offensive load.
However, the Lakers must focus on limiting the contributions of role players like Norman Powell, Terrence Mann, and Russell Westbrook to disrupt the Clippers’ offensive rhythm.
Maintaining defensive pressure beyond the arc is crucial, as the Clippers boast a strong 3-point shooting record, particularly evident in their last matchup where they shot 51.9% from beyond the arc.
Additionally, the Lakers must prioritize securing defensive rebounds to prevent second-chance opportunities, an area where they faltered against the Suns.
Lakers vs. Clippers Starting Lineup
Los Angeles Lakers (31-28) vs. Los Angeles Clippers (37-19) Time: 7:00 p.m. PT, Wednesday February 28, 2024 Location: Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles, California TV: ESPN Radio: 710 AM ESPN LA
Projected Lakers Starting Lineup
- PG: D’Angelo Russell
- SG: Austin Reaves
- SF: LeBron James
- PF: Rui Hachimura
- C: Anthony Davis Key Reserves: Taurean Prince, Spencer Dinwiddie, Cam Reddish, Jaxson Hayes, Max Christie
Projected Clippers Starting Lineup
- PG: James Harden
- SG: Terrence Mann
- SF: Amir Coffey
- PF: Kawhi Leonard
- C: Mason Plumlee Key Reserves: Norman Powell, Russell Westbrook, Daniel Thesis
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