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LA Clippers head to Houston on Thursday night to take on the Rockets in a Western Conference clash, looking to halt a difficult stretch of the season. With a 6-18 record and coming off a tough road loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves on Saturday, Los Angeles faces another challenge compounded by significant injury concerns.
LA Clippers struggling to find consistency
Saturday’s matchup against the Timberwolves highlighted both the potential and struggles of the Clippers. James Harden led the way with 34 points, five rebounds, and six assists, while Kawhi Leonard contributed 20 points and three assists. Despite their efforts, the team fell short, extending a troubling losing streak and raising questions about depth and rotation amid ongoing injuries.
Heading into Houston, the Clippers will be without several key contributors, creating a major test for the team’s remaining roster.
Key injuries impacting tonight’s game
LA Clippers’ injury report lists three notable absences for Thursday’s game:
Bradley Beal — Out: Beal has been ruled out for the remainder of the season following surgery for a left hip fracture. The guard’s scoring and perimeter presence will be sorely missed as Los Angeles navigates the rest of a challenging schedule.
Derrick Jones Jr. — Out: Jones Jr. remains sidelined due to a right knee sprain. His athleticism and defensive versatility have been a valuable asset, and his absence leaves a significant gap in the Clippers’ wing rotation.
Chris Paul — Out: Veteran point guard Chris Paul continues to be unavailable, not traveling with the team for the Houston game. Paul’s leadership and playmaking have been critical in orchestrating LA Clippers’ offense, making his continued absence even more impactful.
On a positive note, Jordan Miller has been cleared from the injury report and is expected to be available despite dealing with ongoing back soreness. His presence will provide some stability in a depleted lineup and offer a much-needed boost in depth.
Implications for Clippers’ rotation
With Beal, Jones Jr., and Paul unavailable, Los Angeles will rely heavily on Harden and Leonard to carry the scoring load. Bench players like Miller will need to step up to cover minutes and maintain energy on both ends of the floor. The team’s ability to adapt to injuries will be critical if they hope to avoid a fourth straight loss.
The Clippers and Rockets tip off at 7 p.m. CT at Toyota Center in Houston, Texas. While Houston enters the matchup with a strong 15-6 record, LA Clippers will focus on adjusting rotations, managing injuries, and finding ways to stay competitive despite a roster riddled with absences.
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