Birthday boy Doncic set to for first taste of Lakers-Clippers rivalry

Despite the LA Lakers traditionally having the upper hand when it comes to the Los Angeles rivalry against the Clippers (107-66), games between both sides are always tense affairs.

Both sides are looking to consolidate their positions in the top echelons of the Western Conference as the Lakers go into Friday’s contest in fourth (36-21) with the Clippers two places behind on 32-26.

The Lakers are adapting to life with Slovenian star Luka Doncic in the team whilst the Clippers have been rejuvenated since the return of Kawhi Leonard to the team.

Aggressive Clippers

“Being aggressive. It’s a mindset,” stated Clippers player James Harden after their recent win over the Bulls with the team looking to bring that attitude to Friday’s contest at the Crypto.com Arena.

Birthday boy Luka Doncic will get his first taste of the LA rivalry game and against the Clippers, he has averaged 32.6 points in 18 career games.

The Slovenian player has just managed to participate in just six games since missing six weeks with a calf strain, and a second game in two nights is looming after Thursday’s win over Minnesota.

“We trust Luka as a shooter and as a decision-maker and the type of shots he’s been able to create throughout his career,” Lakers coach JJ Redick said. “I think we’ve all had stretches like that. He’ll find his rhythm. We’re confident he will.”

The Lakers are now 4-2 with Doncic on the court and the good news for fans of the yellow and purple side of LA is that LeBron James is confident of playing despite a troublesome hamstring issue.

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