Here is what you need to know before the Lakers’ Christmas Day duel with the LA Clippers.
1) AD’s the gift that keeps on giving
For Christmas this year, Anthony Davis and co. have gifted Lakers Nation 24 wins through the first 30 games of the season.
The first-year Laker has been absolutely dominant in the purple and gold, particularly lately. He’s scored 30-plus in three of his past four games — and is averaging 33.3 points and 10.3 rebounds over his last seven.
He’s listed as questionable due to knee soreness, but if he gives it a go, this will only be Davis’ second time playing on Christmas Day. So expect the six-time all-star to be ready for the spotlight if he does suit up for the Lakers’ 21st consecutive Christmas contest.
2) Watching the King is a Christmas tradition
Like Davis, LeBron James (thoracic muscle strain) is considered questionable to play in this matchup. But there’s nobody who quite embodies NBA Christmas like the King.
Should he play tonight, James will break a five-way tie for the second-most Xmas games played. Only Lakers legend Kobe Bryant (16) will have appeared in more Christmas battles than James (14). And if LeBron leads the Lakers to victory, he will tie former teammate Dwyane Wade for the most wins ever on December 25 (10).
Considering the season that James — the NBA leader in assists and a top-10 scorer — is off to, he should be ready to put on a show, health permitting.
3) The stars are all around
There are few duos in the NBA who come anywhere close to James and Davis’ star power, but the Clippers boast a powerful tandem in Kawhi Leonard and Paul George.
The reigning Finals MVP, Leonard (25.5 points) has continued his dominance with his new club, as a two-way force who uses cyborg strength to overwhelm opponents. Meanwhile, George (24.2) has been as smooth as they come, needling opponents with step-backs and screen shots, while still attacking the basket.
And the Clippers maintain firepower for all 48 minutes, as their second unit boasts both of the top bench scorers in the league — Montrezl Harrell (18.5) and Lou Williams (18.3).
Injury Report
Lakers: Kyle Kuzma (left ankle sprain) is probable. LeBron James (thoracic muscle strain) and Anthony Davis (right knee soreness) are questionable. DeMarcus Cousins (right knee rehab) is out.
Clippers: None.
Tip-Off: 5 p.m. PT
TV: ABC and ESPN
Radio: 710 ESPN and 1330 Tu Liga
Unis: Gold City
Location: STAPLES Center — Los Angeles, California