Orlando Magic vs. Los Angeles Clippers: Injury Report and Game Preview
The Orlando Magic might be in luck for their upcoming clash against the Los Angeles Clippers. All-Star forward Kawhi Leonard is listed as questionable due to ankle issues, which could tilt the scales in Orlando's favor.
Injury Report:
Magic:
- Colin Castelton: Out (G League)
- Alex Morales: Out (G League)
- Franz Wagner: Out (Ankle)
- Jalen Suggs: Questionable (Back)
Clippers:
- Bradley Beal: Out (Hip)
- John Collins: Out (Neck)
- Darius Garland: Out (Toe)
- Kawhi Leonard: Questionable (Ankle)
Game Preview:
- Time: 9 p.m.
- Location: Intuit Dome, Los Angeles
- TV: Fan Duel Sports
- Betting Line: Magic +4
The Clippers are kicking off a three-game homestand after a tough loss to the Lakers. Historically, the Magic have struggled against the Clippers, with a 33-39 all-time record, including 1-0 this season. Orlando snapped a 14-game losing streak to the Clippers in March 2021 but has lost 20 of the last 24 encounters overall.
Last Meeting Recap:
In their last showdown on November 20, the Magic dominated the Clippers 129-101. Jalen Suggs was electric, scoring 20 of his 23 points in the first half. The Magic's offense was firing on all cylinders, with six players in double figures and an impressive 18-of-34 from beyond the arc.
Projected Starting Lineups:
Magic:
- G Anthony Black
- G Jalen Suggs
- C Wendell Carter Jr
- F Desmond Bane
- F Paolo Banchero
Clippers:
- F Kawhi Leonard
- F John Collins
- C Brook Lopez
- G Derrick Jones Jr
- G Kris Dunn
Quotes from the Coach:
Magic coach Jamahl Mosley, reflecting on their recent loss to the Suns, emphasized the team's resilience: “Our guys fought till the end, minus bodies. But we’ve got to make sure we continue to do the little things."
On Paolo Banchero's performance, Mosley added: “He attacked the basket a ton. Wasn’t getting the call necessarily going his way, but I loved the way that he was attacking downhill, being aggressive in those situations."
As the Magic gear up for this crucial game, they'll be looking to capitalize on any advantage, especially with key Clippers potentially sidelined. Fans can expect a spirited contest as both teams aim to make their mark.