Mandy
The Los Angeles Lakers and LA Clippers have officially confirmed their starting units ahead of their late-night Emirates NBA Cup matchup, scheduled for an 8 p.m. PT tipoff at Crypto.com Arena. Both teams are undefeated (2-0) in tournament play, but their regular-season paths couldn’t be more different.
The Lakers (12-4) have emerged as clear Western Conference contenders, while the Clippers (5-14) continue to struggle.
Lakers Enter The Game With One Key Absence
According to the NBA’s latest injury update, the Lakers will be missing new starting center Deandre Ayton, who sustained a right knee contusion in Sunday’s narrow 108-106 win over the Utah Jazz.
Ayton is the only expected absence, giving Los Angeles a mostly healthy roster heading into the matchup.
Clippers Depleted By Major Injuries
The Clippers, on the other hand, remain significantly shorthanded:
- Bradley Beal, a three-time All-Star, is officially out for the season after playing just six healthy games. He suffered a left hip fracture, ending his campaign early.
- Derrick Jones Jr. will miss at least five months after an MCL sprain in his right knee.
- Two-way player Jordan Miller is ruled out due to a left hamstring injury.
These setbacks leave the Clippers particularly thin on the wing heading into the NBA Cup meeting.
Confirmed Starting Lineups
Los Angeles Lakers Starting Five
- Luka Doncic – Five-time All-NBA guard
- Austin Reaves – Emerging standout and likely future All-Star
- Rui Hachimura – Reliable two-way small forward
- LeBron James – 21-time All-NBA forward, though off to an uncharacteristically slow scoring start
- Jaxson Hayes – Filling in at center
Los Angeles Clippers Starting Five
- James Harden – 11-time All-Star point guard
- Kris Dunn – Starting at shooting guard
- Kawhi Leonard – Six-time All-NBA small forward
- John Collins – Athletic power forward
- Ivica Zubac – Defensive anchor and starting center
Lakers Aim To Extend Win Streak
Sitting as the No. 3 seed in the Western Conference, the Lakers look to push their winning streak to five straight games. They’ve been solid at home, entering the contest with a 4-2 record at Crypto.com Arena.
The upcoming NBA Cup clash between the Lakers and Clippers promises high energy, star power, and strategic matchups despite the Clippers’ injury challenges.
With both teams undefeated in tournament play, the game will play a crucial role in shaping their cup positioning.
The Lakers, riding strong momentum, are poised to protect home court and extend their run, while the Clippers will seek resilience through their remaining core. Fans can expect a competitive, high-stakes battle in Los Angeles.