Clippers vs Wizards: Can LA Extend Their Winning Run?

The Los Angeles Clippers (18-23, 10th in the Western Conference) are looking to make it six straight wins as they head to Washington to face the Wizards (10-31, 14th in the Eastern Conference) on Monday, with tip-off scheduled for 3 p.m. EST. This game presents a stark contrast in form, with the Clippers riding a wave of momentum and the Wizards battling through a challenging season.

Wizards’ Home Court Woes & Close Game Tendencies

The Wizards have struggled on their home court this season, posting a 6-13 record at Capital One Arena. Interestingly, Washington has proven competitive in tight contests, with a 2-2 record in games decided by less than four points. This suggests a team that doesn’t give up easily, even when facing adversity. However, consistency has been a major issue for the Wizards, who are looking to build some positive momentum.

Clippers’ Road Challenges & One-Possession Games

While the Clippers are on a hot streak, their success hasn’t entirely translated to the road. They hold a 7-14 record away from home. Furthermore, the Clippers have a 2-6 record in games decided by a single possession, indicating a need to improve their composure in crucial moments. Their ability to close out games will be a key factor in this matchup.

Key Statistical Matchups

A crucial aspect of this game will be the three-point shooting battle. The Wizards currently drain 12.6 three-pointers per game, only 0.8 fewer than the 13.4 the Clippers allow. Controlling the perimeter will be vital for both teams. Offensively, the Wizards average 112.5 points per game, but they concede a significant 123.9 points, highlighting a defensive vulnerability the Clippers will aim to exploit.

Recent Form & Top Performers

These teams recently met on January 15th, with the Clippers emerging victorious with a 119-105 win. The Wizards are 3-7 in their last 10 games, averaging 111.3 points, while the Clippers have been on fire, going 8-2 and averaging 115.4 points.

• For the Wizards: Bub Carrington is a key contributor, averaging 9.5 points and 3.8 rebounds per game. Alex Sarr has also been impressive lately, averaging 15.6 points and 6.2 rebounds over his last 10 appearances.
• For the Clippers: James Harden leads the charge with 25.8 points and 8.1 assists per game. Kawhi Leonard has been finding his rhythm from beyond the arc, hitting 3.6 three-pointers per game in his last 10 contests.

Injury Report

Wizards: Tristan Vukcevic is listed as day-to-day with a knee injury. Bilal Coulibaly is out due to a back injury, and Cam Whitmore is sidelined for the season with a shoulder injury. Trae Young remains out with a quad injury.

Clippers: Kawhi Leonard is day-to-day with an ankle injury. Bradley Beal is out for the season with a hip injury, Derrick Jones Jr. is out with a knee injury, and Bogdan Bogdanovic is sidelined with a hamstring injury.

This story was created by The Associated Press using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.

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