Through the last decade, the LA Clippers have a 14-4 record versus the Chicago Bulls. Their success against Chicago has become more evident by the season, as franchise superstar Kawhi Leonard tends to crush the windy city nearly every time he makes an appearance.
Furthermore, last season, the Bulls tried every defensive mechanism against Leonard. They switched defenders, ran different coverages, and sent double-teams, but none held up against the two-time Defensive Player of the Year. All Chicago could do was hope he would miss.
Throughout the first matchup, the Clippers won by 10, and Leonard posted 19 points on 8-15 shooting. Conversely, virtually all his points were scored in the midrange and around the rim, adding to his assertiveness in LA.
Additionally, former MVP James Harden posted a low-scoring triple-double with 14 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 assists.
Within five day’s time, the Clippers flew to Chicago and challenged the Bulls in the first game of a back-to-back. Their initial travels were successful, as head coach Tyronn Lue won by 15 and advanced to a 42-23 record in the Western Conference.
As Harden was out with a strained left shoulder, Leonard enforced command with 27 points and five rebounds in 34 minutes. These numbers are undeniably impressive, but they are nothing new for the two-time champion as his trend of dominance continued over the Bulls.
Moreover, the Clippers will need Harden to score, facilitate, and defend in their opening confrontation with Chicago this season.
A triumph over the Bulls would be major news for Lue and his staff. They are in their best stretch of the season, as LA is on a four-game win streak, fifth in the Western Conference, and first in the division. Another victory would push them closer to the fourth seed, where they are just 1.5 games behind.
Is Kawhi Leonard playing tonight?
On the second night of a back-to-back, LA Clippers’ star Kawhi Leonard will not play against the Chicago Bulls.
Latest injury report for Clippers vs Bulls
Behind Kawhi Leonard is the 13-year veteran, P.J. Tucker, who is out and away from the LA Clippers. Nicolas Batum(right finger soreness) and James Harden(right groin soreness) are probable, and Kris Dunn(left knee soreness) and Norman Powell(back soreness) are questionable.
Out for the Bulls are Jevon Carter(illness), Torrey Craig(right ankle sprain), Chris Duarte(personal), E.J. Liddell(G-League), Emanuel Miller(G-League), Adama Sanogo(G-League), and Coby White(right ankle soreness). Jalen Smith is probable(right patella tendon), and Lonzo Ball(right quadricep) and Ayo Dosunmu(injury management) are questionable.