SUMMARY
- The Los Angeles Clippers, currently ranked fourth in the Western Conference with a 20-12 record, have overcome a rough start to the season after acquiring star player James Harden.
- The Phoenix Suns, positioned eighth in the Western Conference with an 18-15 record, are on a four-game winning streak.
The Los Angeles Clippers are set to face the Phoenix Suns for the first time in the season. The last regular-season game between these two teams was on April 9, 2023, in which the Clippers won with a score of 119-114. The Suns, are historically dominant with a 137-98 all-time record against the Clippers.
This season, LA had a rough start after acquiring star player James Harden. However, they have since found their rhythm, now ranking fourth in the Western Conference with a 20-12 record. They have a three-game winning streak that includes wins over the Charlotte Hornets, Memphis Grizzlies, and Miami Heat. The Clippers have shown impressive form, having an 8-2 record in their last 10 games and a 6-8 record in away games.
On the other hand, the Phoenix Suns are currently eighth in the West with an 18-15 record and have a four-game winning streak. Despite their challenges with injury management, they have shown their potential to beat any team.
Kevin Durant is out for the Suns vs. Clippers game
The Phoenix Suns have announced that star forward Kevin Durant will be missing the upcoming game against the LA Clippers due to right hamstring soreness. Durant’s absence is a huge setback for the Suns and a disappointment for NBA fans who were hoping for a fully healthy matchup between the two teams.
Kevin Durant (hamstring) listed out for Wednesday.
— Underdog NBA (@Underdog__NBA) January 3, 2024
Both teams have made slight changes to their lineups compared to last season. The Suns acquired Bradley Beal, while the Clippers added James Harden to their roster in LA. However, due to Durant’s absence, fans will have to wait longer to see these two teams compete at their full strength.
Phoenix Suns injury report:
- Kevin Durant (out – hamstring)
- Damion Lee (out – knee)
Phoenix Suns expected lineup:
- PG Devin Booker
- SG Bradley Beal
- SF Grayson Allen
- PF Chimezie Metu
- C Jusuf Nurkic
LA Clippers injury report:
(The Clippers do not have anyone on the injury report)
LA Clippers expected lineup:
- PG James Harden
- SG Terance Mann
- SF Paul George
- PF Kawhi Leonard
- C Ivica Zubac
The Clippers are slightly favored over the Suns tonight
The Clippers will enter the game with a fully healthy roster, having Kawhi Leonard, Paul George, James Harden, and Russell Westbrook. On the other hand, the Suns will rely on Devin Booker and Bradley Beal.
“He’ll never say it, but I think he needs a couple of games, too. He’s had a lot on his plate this season with me and Brad being out.”
Devin Booker on Kevin Durant, who will miss his second straight game with right hamstring soreness Wednesday vs. Clippers. #Suns #ClipperNation pic.twitter.com/v4QnUS63Ka
— Duane Rankin (@DuaneRankin) January 3, 2024
Due to the absence of Durant, the odds are slightly of the Clippers. The team is expected to extend its winning streak to four games, taking advantage of their strong lineup and recent form. The Suns might find it challenging to match the Clippers’ scoring ability, especially without Durant. Coach Ty Lue is expected to start with a strong lineup for the Clippers, including Harden, Terance Mann, George, Leonard, and Ivica Zubac.