Los Angeles Clippers: James Harden doubtful for tomorrow

After injuring his hamstring, James Harden is being listed as doubtful for the rematch of the Houston Rockets and Los Angeles Clippers.

Late in the Houston Rockets’ loss to the Utah Jazz yesterday, James Harden injured his hamstring. Now, he is being listed as doubtful for tomorrow’s rematch versus the Los Angeles Clippers.

Harden told media after the game that he left because he just felt tightness in the left hamstring.

Tim McMahon of ESPN tweeted out that Harden did not practice today and is listed as “very doubtful” according to head coach Mike D’Antoni.

This bodes well for the Clippers who are looking to bounce back after a loss in New Orleans to the Pelicans. Prior to that the Clips beat Houston in LA, albeit without Chris Paul who was serving the first of his two game suspension.

While he will be returning, it doesn’t look like he will have his running mate in the backcourt. The Rockets may also be without James Ennis, so Carmelo Anthony will likely get the start.

The Clippers need to pick up as many wins as possible against Western Conference foes. They sit at 2-2, which isn’t horrible considering the tough schedule they have to start the season. By winning against the Rockets on Friday, the Clippers would have the season series locked up with only one game remaining in April.

Harden’s absence will be tough for the Rockets to overcome. Through their four games, he is averaging 28.5 points on 46.8% shooting. Replacing that his scoring will be tough for Houston and the Clippers can focus harder on stopping Paul and Eric Gordon.

While no official news has come out on Harden not playing, he is having an MRI done today and D’Antoni already suggesting he will be out seems like that will be the case. There’s no need for him to risk aggrivating the injury further, especially only in the fifth game of the year.

Keep checking back here as we keep you updated on any changes regarding Harden’s status and for all your pre-game coverage.