The Los Angeles Clippers are preparing for a clash against the Miami Heat on January 1, 2024, at 10:30 PM ET, marking their first meeting of the season. Bookmakers favor the Clippers, the home team, as the winner for this upcoming game, with moneyline odds of -284.
Notably, the Clippers are heading into the game with an impressive form. The team has suffered only two losses in their last ten games. Victories over notable opponents such as the Charlotte Hornets and Memphis Grizzlies have propelled them to a 19-12 record, securing the fourth position in the Western Conference standings before Miami.
Challenges to Clippers’ game
While initially facing challenges in finding their rhythm following the inclusion of James Harden, the Los Angeles Clippers have now solidified into a formidable unit. They emerged as serious contenders for the championship, with Harden seamlessly adapting his game and frequently notching up double-digit assists.
Key contributors to the Clippers include Paul George, who showcases his versatility on both ends of the court, and Russell Westbrook, who is the fourth offensive option. Kawhi Leonard was also in exceptional physical condition, and the addition of Ivica Zubac in the paint further enhanced the team's overall quality by controlling rebounds on both ends.
However, the Clippers will face challenges in the absence of Mason Plumlee, who was sidelined due to a sprained medial collateral ligament in his left knee. In addition, the availability of Kawhi Leonard, who is recovering from a torn meniscus, was also in question. Leonard missed the entirety of the 2021-22 season and started the last season under careful restrictions.
Heat’s resilience amid injury woes
On the other side, the Heat began the season as a dominant force in the Eastern Conference. Intending to advance to the finals, the team held a record of 19 wins and 13 losses.
Miami has suffered only three losses in their last ten games, including their recent 117 to 109 loss against the Utah Jazz on December 30, 2023, which snapped a four-game winning streak.
The team's resilience and commitment to a defensive-oriented approach have been evident throughout the season. One of the key players includes center Bam Adebayo, who poses a significant threat to opposing defenses. The matchup between him and Zubac in the paint is anticipated to contribute to controlling rebounds.
Another key player, Jimmy Butler, has been instrumental in the team's offensive prowess. Averaging 21 points, five rebounds and 4.5 assists per game in the current regular season, Butler was widely regarded as the Heat's best player as he marks his twelfth year with the team.
However, the 34-year-old suffered a right foot injury during Saturday's game against Utah, exiting with 6:18 left in the third quarter and did not return. This was his first appearance after missing the previous four games with a strained left calf.
In that game, he concluded with eight points on 2-of-3 shooting from the field and 4-of-4 shooting from the foul line, along with two rebounds, one assist and one block in 23 minutes. Apart from him, forward Haywood Highsmith also departed Saturday's game early due to injury.
“We’ve been in situations like this before. We’ve had guys out,” said Adebayo. However, he still expressed optimism about the upcoming game.
X-rays on Butler's injured foot returned negative. Nevertheless, his availability for the remainder of the matches is uncertain, pending a potential entry into the NBA's concussion protocol.
Adding to Miami's injury challenges, Dru Smith will also be unavailable due to a knee injury. The participation of key players like Josh Richardson, Caleb Martin, and Kyle Lowry depends on the medical team's decision.