Game Preview
The Los Angeles Clippers (7-7) host the red-hot Golden State Warriors (10-1) in a showdown between two teams heading in opposite directions. The Warriors have won eight straight, including their last five by an average of six points, while the Clippers are coming off a narrow victory to snap a three-game skid.
Golden State's offense has been firing on all cylinders, averaging a blistering 121.3 points per game on the season. They're shooting nearly 48 percent from the field and 39 percent from three, with their ball movement leading to 30.3 assists per contest. The Warriors are also crashing the boards hard, grabbing 49 rebounds a night.
Defensively, Golden State has been stifling opponents, holding teams to just 108.5 points on 47.6 percent shooting. They're forcing nearly 10 steals per game and blocking 5.8 shots, making it tough for opponents to find open looks. The Warriors are taking care of the ball as well, averaging just 13.7 turnovers.
The Clippers, meanwhile, have been inconsistent at both ends. While they're scoring 109.7 points per game on 46.4 percent shooting, their defense has been leaky, surrendering 109.9 points on 46.4 percent opponent shooting. Los Angeles has also struggled on the glass, grabbing just 45.6 rebounds per contest.
Over their last 10 games, the Clippers have been hovering around .500 at 5-5. Their offense has dipped slightly to 109.7 points per game, while their defensive numbers have improved marginally to 110.8 points allowed. Los Angeles will need to shore up its rebounding after grabbing just 44.7 boards over the last 10 games.
With the Warriors rolling and the Clippers scuffling, this matchup has all the makings of a potential blowout. But the home team always has a chance to catch fire, especially against a rival like Golden State. Controlling the glass and limiting turnovers will be key for Los Angeles to keep this one close.