One of the biggest rivalries in recent NBA history is renewed tonight, as the Los Angeles Lakers take on the Los Angeles Clippers.
These two teams used to share an arena before the latter decided to leave to try and build a legacy separate from the Lakers, but it hasn’t quite worked out that way.
All-Star forward Kawhi Leonard is left all by himself after James Harden was sent to the Cleveland Cavaliers a few weeks back, which is a massive blow to the Clippers’ playoff hopes.
But regardless of the trajectory of their season, they seem to have a knack for making games competitive against the Lakers.
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Luka Doncic has his team in prime position for the postseason, but he has missed the last four games.
Los Angeles went just 6-6 in games that their franchise centerpiece missed, so they can’t afford for him to miss too much time.
Let’s see whether he will be in the lineup tonight.
Lakers Injury Report: Luka Doncic Availability
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Just when you think Doncic can’t get any better, he proceeds to do just that. He is currently averaging 32.8 points, 7.8 rebounds and 8.6 assists per game and is in the thick of the MVP discussion.
His uncanny ability to dominate the offensive side of the ball will be on full display tonight, as Doncic is finally off the injury report.
Lebron James did a solid job of holding down the fort while his star teammate was absent, helping to keep them afloat with a 2-2 record. Now, he can go back to being the second option and allowing Doncic to run the show.
As good as these players are individually, they’ve struggled on the court together. Doncic and James won their first four games together this season, but they’ve gone just 15-11 with them both on the court since.
The Lakers will need them to build some chemistry in a hurry if they want any chance at a deep playoff run.