After beating the Minnesota Timberwolves Wednesday night, the LA Clippers move on to Windy City on Friday, where they will complete their two-game road trip against the Chicago Bulls.
The upcoming matchup should be a lot harder, though that doesn’t mean winning is out of the question. LA is without a doubt the best team, but the Bulls have given the Clippers one fear this season, and their stars can score with the best of them.
Zach LaVine is the main player to keep an eye on. The 25-year-old shooting guard is getting an average of 28.2 points per game this season, and has been as effective as ever. It posts high-scoring shooting percentages across the board, along with 5.3 high-rev conversions and 5.3 assists per game.
LaVine went for 45 points, seven rebounds and seven assists in his last meeting with the Clippers in early January, and that was with the Clippers at full health. On Friday, LA will be without Paul George, who has been one of the best two – way players in the NBA this year.
Fortunately, the Clippers will have Kawhi Leonard, who fell 35 on Chicago last month. This was one of his best shooting performances of the season, as Leonard tied seven of his nine attempts from a three-point range and went 14-of-22 overall.
Patrick Beverley will also be back at LA in the starting lineup, returning from Wednesday night ‘s eight – game absence. He’s still limited in minutes, but will be fundamental in LA’s plans to defend Coby White – Chicago other high-scoring guard.
If the Clippers are going to win this game, it will be because of the defense and the ability to make the game slower. The Bulls like to play fast and score quickly, but they are not particularly effective. Look out for Leonard to have another big game, and keep an eye out for Lou Williams, who has been hot red over his last four contests.
As you look
Matchup: LA Clippers (18-8) at Chicago Bulls (10-14)
Date: Friday, February 12th
Time: 5:00 pm PT
Location: United Center
Broadcast information: NBA League Pass
Promise information
Share: Clippers -6.5
Moneyline: Bulls +230, Clippers -280
Thar / Fo: 228
Odds courtesy of FanDuel Sportsbook
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