The Los Angeles Lakers visit the Los Angeles Clippers on Thursday night in a pivotal Western Conference matchup overshadowed by significant injuries.
.jpg "LeBron's Moment or Harden's Burden? Click for the full injury breakdown and our prediction for the Lakers vs. Clippers matchup.")
Star forward Kawhi Leonard (knee) is questionable for the Clippers, while the Lakers will be without guard Austin Reaves (calf), setting the stage for a battle of adjusted game plans.
Key Injuries Reshape the Roster
The availability of Kawhi Leonard looms largest over this contest. The Clippers have listed him as questionable with a left knee contusion, potentially missing his fourth straight game.
His absence would force James Harden to carry
an even greater offensive burden, a concern after he appeared fatigued late in
their recent loss to Chicago.
Read also: Can the Kings Stop the Slide? Raptors vs. Kings Odds, Injury Report & Our Top Bet
For the Lakers, the confirmed loss of Austin Reaves strips them of a crucial secondary playmaker and shooter.
In his absence, Jake LaRavia and Marcus Smart are expected to see expanded roles.
The Lakers have also ruled out
rookie Adou Thiero (knee).
Game Impact & Players to Watch for Lakers vs. Clippers
Leonard's potential absence creates a major two-way void.
If he sits, look for Kobe Sanders and
veteran Nicolas Batum to receive more minutes for their defensive
effort and spacing.
Read also: Knicks vs. Nets: Odds, Prediction & Pick for January 21 Rivals Week Clash
For the Lakers, all eyes will be on Luka Dončić, coming off a 38-point triple-double, and LeBron James, who must orchestrate the offense without Reaves' creation.
This game becomes a strategic chess match for coaches JJ Redick and
Tyronn Lue.
Gear Up for the Lakers vs. Clippers Rivalry
- Los
Angeles Lakers Icon Jersey: Rep LeBron and the Lakers in their classic
gold.
- Los
Angeles Clippers City Edition Shorts: Show your Clippers pride
with this season's unique style.
- Wilson
NBA Authentic Series Basketball: Practice with the official
game ball.
How to Watch Lakers vs. Clippers Rivalry
- Date
& Time: Thursday,
January 22, 2026 | 10:00 p.m. EST
- Streaming: Amazon Prime Video
- Location: Los Angeles
Source Information:
This preview is based on official team injury reports and game analysis.- For
official NBA injury reports: NBA.com Injury Report
- For
streaming details: Amazon Prime Video
Affiliate Disclosure: This article includes affiliate links. Therefore, a commission may be earned on qualifying purchases at no extra cost to the reader, which supports our coverage.
.jpg&description=Lakers vs. Clippers: Injury Cloud Hangs Over LA Showdown){kind=link}