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Clippers Injury Update: Will Kawhi Leonard Play Tonight vs Celtics Despite Back-to-Back Games?

Published 01/27/2024, 1:57 PM EST

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USA Today via Reuters

The LA Clippers are set to face the Boston Celtics for the second and final time this season on Saturday, seeking redemption after a disappointing 145-108 loss in their initial matchup on Dec. 23. Playing the second night of a back-to-back may pose a challenge for the Clippers who are on the road. However, their decisive 20-point victory against the Toronto Raptors will be a confidence booster.

Their 107-127 win made the Clippers the third seed in the west eclipsing the Denver Nuggets. However, even the Celtics are on a three-game win streak, with their newly anointed All-Star starter Jayson Tatum at the helm. Heading into TD Garden, this is a highly anticipated matchup. And they need all hands on deck. Per the latest injury report, Kawhi Leonard’s absence from the list is great news for the fans. However, there is a cloud of confusion about another star player.

Paul George, who had a minutes restriction in the Clippers’ game against the Raptors, is questionable for the Celtics game. Dealing with a groin injury and considering the back-to-back schedule, his participation remains uncertain., Ivica Zubac will be absent for the Clippers for the sixth consecutive game due to a right calf strain, with his last appearance dating back to the team’s 128-119 victory against the Memphis Grizzlies on January 12. Moussa Diabate will also be sidelined due to a right-hand metacarpal fracture.

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The Celtics’ injury report features only Kristaps Porzingis, who is listed as doubtful due to a left ankle sprain. Porzingis sustained the injury during Boston’s dominant 143-110 victory over the Miami Heat on Thursday. With the Celtics leading the Eastern Conference and Clippers occupying top three in the west, this game promises to be thrilling with high stakes for both sides. However, the main focal point of the game will be The Claw vs. Tatum.

Kawhi Leonard vs. Jayson Taytum

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The anticipated showdown between Kawhi Leonard and Jayson Tatum will be a highlight for fans of the LA Clippers and Boston Celtics on Saturday. The two power forwards will fight it out to ensure a victory for their respective teams. When it comes down to stats, Tatum has the upper hand, as he is averaging 27.0 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 4.4 assists. Leonard, on the other hand, is averaging 23.5 points with 6.2 rebounds and 3.8 assists.

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Both the stars have been having a relatively healthy season this year, missing little to no games. Kawhi Leonard, a two-time Defensive Player of the Year, is known for delivering exceptional defensive performances, particularly against the NBA’s top stars. With Tatum falling into that elite category, the clash between the two on both ends of the court is expected to be the crowd-puller of this game.

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Who do you predict will take home the victory? Let us know in the comments!

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Written by:

Jayati Bhattacharjee

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Edited by:

Ruth John