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USA Today via Reuters

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USA Today via Reuters

Both the Los Angeles Clippers and Memphis Grizzlies have started the regular season on a sour note. Since the Blockbuster trade of James Harden to the Clippers, things haven’t looked up. They have lost four games in a row. On the other hand, amid the suspension of Ja Morant, the Memphis Grizzlies are the last team in the Western Conference. They have an abysmal record of one win and eight losses.

Terrell Owens holding Dude Wipes XL

Ahead of their matchup tonight at Crypto.com Arena, there are a myriad of things to consider. What the expected roster is going to be for the Clippers?and is James Harden in the starting lineup?

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The expected starting lineup for the Clippers

According to their most recent game, Coach Tyronne Lue has used James Harden in the starting lineup since he joined the team, with Russell Westbrook forming the backcourt. Paul George, Kawhi Leonard, and Ivica Zubac round up the Clippers’ starting frontcourt.

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The Memphis Grizzlies currently have six players listed as injured, which includes Derrick Rose, Xavier Tillman, and Zaire Williams. Unfortunately, Steven Adams is out for the entire season. However, Ja Morant is set to return to the lineup on December 23. On the other hand, Brandon Clarke is also on the injured list due to an Achilles injury, and there is no specified timeline for his return.

As for the LA Clippers, they are in a more favorable position with their recent starting five all healthy. Miles Plumlee is expected to return in mid-November from a knee injury while Brandon Boston Jr. is anticipated to fully recover from a quadriceps injury by the end of the month.

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James Harden’s antics continue

When James Harden had a good relationship with Daryl Morey, he would often criticize the head coach, leading Morey to replace the coach according to Harden’s preferences. However, that is not something he can expect in the current situation.

Read More: Predicting James Harden?s ?Downfall? After Controversial Claim, 7x NBA Champ Sets the Record Straight for Clippers Star

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Adjusting the lineup to accommodate Harden poses a significant challenge for Ty. Even though Harden and Westbrook are familiar with each other’s playing styles, it might take time for Leonard and PG13 to adapt. During this transitional period, Ty Lu has the task of finding a solution to streamline the somewhat chaotic lineup.

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Akashdeep Banerjee

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Akashdeep Banerjee is an NBA Writer at EssentiallySports. He commenced his journey in sports writing after obtaining a degree in Mass Communication. The pinnacle of the three-point revolution, marked by the captivating performances of Stephen Curry and the GSW, ignited his passion.

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Vishav

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