Clippers Aim for Third Straight Win Against Nuggets Amid Injury Concerns
The Los Angeles Clippers are gearing up for a crucial matchup against the Denver Nuggets on Friday night, seeking their third consecutive victory over the reigning champions this season. Despite facing injury setbacks, the Clippers have reasons for optimism as they welcome back key players to the lineup.
James Harden’s return is a significant boost for the Clippers. His ability to exploit Nikola Jokic in pick-and-roll situations has been a game-changer in previous encounters. Harden’s court vision and passing skills allow him to navigate Denver’s defensive schemes effectively, whether Jokic drops back or hedges on screens.
The Clippers’ defensive strategy against Jokic will be crucial. While the Serbian center is having an outstanding season, shooting an impressive 50% from three-point range, the Clippers have managed to disrupt Denver’s offense in past meetings. In their first matchup this season, the Clippers held the Nuggets to just 42 points in the first half, showcasing their defensive prowess.
Injury updates are mixed for both teams. The Clippers will be without Kawhi Leonard, Terance Mann, and Derrick Jones Jr., but Mo Bamba and Amir Coffey are set to return. For the Nuggets, Jamal Murray is questionable with a hamstring injury, while Aaron Gordon and Christian Brown are probable.
The starting lineup for the Clippers remains a topic of discussion. With Derrick Jones Jr. out, the team must decide between Amir Coffey and Nicolas Batum for the final starting spot. Batum’s previous success against Denver, including a plus-17 performance in their first win this season, could be a factor in the decision.
Defensively, the Clippers face a dilemma in guarding Jokic. Options include playing drop coverage, switching, or rotating aggressively on pick-and-pops. Each strategy has its risks, given the Nuggets’ array of capable shooters surrounding Jokic.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Clippers’ game plan against the Nuggets, tune into the Locked On Clippers podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Clippers Podcast:
• In-depth analysis of James Harden’s impact on the Clippers’ offense
• Discussion on the importance of defense in championship-caliber teams
• Preview of upcoming games against Utah Jazz and Dallas Mavericks
