Here is what you need to know before the Lakers’ “road game” against the Clippers.
1)
Jordan Clarkson is currently on a career-long streak of 16 straight double-figure scoring games. During this stretch, the Rising Star selection is averaging 16.5 points on 41.8 percent shooting.
2)
The Lakers might be in line to use their ninth different lineup of the season, as two usual starters will likely not suit up. Kobe Bryant has already been ruled out for a day of rest, while Lou Williams (upper respiratory infection) is doubtful.
3)
The Lakers are in unfamiliar territory when it comes to playing the Clippers, as they have lost a franchise worse eight-straight to their Staples Center neighbors. Prior to this run, they had dropped the season series only twice since their first meeting in 1970.
4)
The Clippers will be without leading scorer Blake Griffin, who is out for 4-6 weeks due to a hand injury. Griffin was already hurt when he damaged his hand, having missed games due to a partially torn left quad tendon.
5)
Despite losing a five-time all-star, the Clippers have actually been playing better since Griffin’s last game against the Lakers on Christmas Day. Not only have they gone 13-3, but most of the team’s core players have seen their stats and efficiency rise.
6)
A key reason for this has been the play of Chris Paul, who was named an all-star for the ninth straight season on Thursday. The 11-year vet currently ranks in the NBA’s top five in assists (9.6) and steals (2.1), and has averaged a double-double with Griffin out (20.0 points, 10.8 assists).
7)
The Clippers employ one of the league’s top shooters, who has also stepped up in Griffin’s stead. During these last 16 games, J.J. Redick is providing 18.4 points and 3.3 3-pointers, while hitting percentages of 51.1 from the field, 52.5 on 3-pointers and 90.6 at the free throw line.
8)
For the second straight season, DeAndre Jordan is challenging Wilt Chamberlain for the top field goal percentage in NBA history. Jordan — who is also second in rebounds and third in blocks — is shooting 71.2 percent this year, which is just 1.5 percent lower than Chamberlain’s record set in 1972-73.
9)
Griffin’s injury has allowed for a familiar foe to take his place in the Clippers’ starting lineup. However, Paul Pierce’s year has been almost nothing like his NBA Finals campaigns against the Lakers in 2009 and 2010. The Inglewood native is averaging career-lows across the board, including scoring (5.7) and field goal percentage (34.4).
10)
The Clippers take care of the ball better than most every other team. Their 13.0 turnovers committed per game are tied with Charlotte for the fewest in the league.