The LA Clippers meet the Cleveland Cavaliers tonight at Intuit Dome in a home match that could potentially move them up to the seventh seed in the Western Conference. If the Clippers win, this will likely become an instant classic, as momentum will continue building for head coach Tyronn Lue.
The Clippers face Cleveland on a three-game win streak, where they last beat the Charlotte Hornets by 35 points, 123-88. James Harden, a former MVP and LA's top superstar, continued his impressive run with 31 points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists against the Hornets' defense. He played 31 minutes, his lowest since February 4th, with a +/- of +36(team-high).
Kawhi Leonard, who has been starring like his former self, torched the Hornets for 23 points, six rebounds, and five assists in 27 minutes. He played phenomenally on a night when his duties were relieved early.
As several others also took advantage of Charlotte's defense, interior big man Ivica Zubac posted a career-high in assists with eight, which added to his stat line of 17 points and 14 rebounds. He witnessed double-teams left and right and consistently read the coverages for the right pass.
This game was Norman Powell's first since March 2nd. He played 23 minutes and scored seven points on 3-13 shooting from the floor.
The Cleveland Cavaliers enter town after the Orlando Magic recently ended their historic 16-game win streak. Multiple guys were scoring the ball, but several were inefficient, which propelled Orlando to win.
As Cleveland's superstar and number one option, Donovan Mitchell stamped 23 points, six rebounds, and five assists, shooting 9-28, including 3-14 from three. His right-hand man, Darius Garland, did not necessarily stand out with 19 points, four assists, and five turnovers.
Cleveland did have Ty Jerome and Jarrett Allen play well, but the key to taking them down lies in locking up Mitchell and Garland. This is where defensive specialist Kris Dunn will be crucial, who missed the Charlotte contest with knee soreness.
Will Kawhi Leonard and Norman Powell suit up against the Cleveland Cavaliers on March 18th?
Kawhi Leonard and Norman Powell are healthy for tonight's matchup with the Cleveland Cavaliers. This is flawless timing for the LA Clippers, who hope to stretch their winning streak.
Full injury report for LA Clippers vs. Cleveland Cavaliers March 18th
The LA Clippers' entire rotation will be healthy, as they will only be missing Jordan Miller(hamstring), Patrick Baldwin Jr.(G-League), Seth Lundy(G-League), Cam Christie(G-League), and Trentyn Flowers(G-League).
The Cleveland Cavaliers can match the Clippers with an active rotation if Evan Mobley plays, as he is questionable with a right foot contusion. Emoni Bates(G-League), Nae'Qwan Tomlin(G-League), and Luke Travers(G-League) will not be available.