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LeBron James expected to play on Christmas versus the LA Clippers

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 04: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers pushes Landry Shamet #20 of the Los Angeles Clippers during the second half of a game at Staples Center on March 04, 2019 in Los Angeles, California. The Los Angeles Clippers defeated the Los Angeles Lakers 113-105. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 04: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers pushes Landry Shamet #20 of the Los Angeles Clippers during the second half of a game at Staples Center on March 04, 2019 in Los Angeles, California. The Los Angeles Clippers defeated the Los Angeles Lakers 113-105. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)

Despite missing the Lakers’ last game, LeBron James is expected to play on Christmas Day when they face the LA Clippers.

Don’t worry Clipper Nation. The Lakers won’t have any excuses on Christmas Day should the LA Clippers beat them. LeBron James is likely to play after missing the Los Angeles Lakers’ last game.

James has been suffering from a thoracic muscle strain, which is a strain near his rib cage. According to Dave McMenamin of ESPN, James is going to attempt to play. The decision comes in part due to the game being on national television. The other part is due to the Lakers having dropped three games straight.

Although it might be better long-term for the Lakers to rest James, it isn’t surprising that he will be playing on Wednesday, especially considering he has stated that he will play when he’s healthy “for the kids“.

For the Clippers, it seems like Christmas Day will be the first time we see the team entirely healthy. JaMychal Green was able to return on Sunday versus the Oklahoma City Thunder, but both Patrick Beverley and Kawhi Leonard sat out.

The last time the two teams squared off was on opening night. The Clippers did not have Paul George, but they were still able to pull off the victory. The Lakers have since improved on their rotations, leading them to a 24-6 record which is the best in the Western Conference.

The Clippers sit at 22-10, good enough for fourth place in the West. They have had some confusing losses, including blowing a lead on Sunday to the Thunder.

Christmas Day is a big day for both teams so we are sure they will throw everything at each other. Make sure to check back here for all your previews and Clippers’ news!