The LA Clippers have made a strong start so far this season, picking up wins in four of their first five tournaments. And while the single loss was about as disappointing as it comes, the Clippers have done well to put it behind.
Since losing to the Dallas Mavericks by 51 points on Sunday, the Clippers have led their last two rivals in the Minnesota Timberwolves and Portland Trail Blazers. And now that Kawhi Leonard is back from a two – game absence, LA will be carrying enough momentum into their matchup with the Utah Jazz on Friday night.
Not only are the Clippers hot, but the Jazz have been struggling since they beat Portland in their open season. Utah is 1-2 in its last three tournaments, with losses to Minnesota and the Phoenix Suns. And while Donovan Mitchell still scores over 20 points per game, the fourth-year guard is shooting just 34.1% off the field and 29.7% from a three-point range.
That said, this should still be a big test for LA. Hitting the Jazz on the road is never easy, and fans in attendance could throw the Clippers off their game. Can they keep their streak alive, or can Mitchell find his bullet in time?
As you look
Matchup: LA Clippers (4-1) at Utah Jazz (2-2)
Date: Friday, January 1st
Time: 6:00 pm PT
Location: Vivint Smart Home Arena
Broadcast information: NBA League Pass
Promise information
Share: Clippers -3.5
Moneyline: Jazz +142, Clippers -168
Thar / Fo: 221
Odds courtesy of FanDuel Sportsbook
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