Los Angeles finished the regular season No. 9 with a 42-40 record, setting up a high-stakes clash with a Warriors squad led by Stephen Curry. Kawhi Leonard has been the driving force for the Clippers, delivering one of his best seasons and remaining central to their postseason push.
The announced lineup emphasizes balance on both ends, with Garland handling the primary ball-handling duties alongside Dunn in the backcourt. Jones Jr. adds athleticism on the wing, Leonard anchors the offense and defense, and Lopez supplies size, rim protection and spacing in the middle.
Leonard’s performance has been a stabilizing force this season, as he posted 27.9 points, 6.3 rebounds, 3.6 assists and 1.9 steals per game while shooting over 50% from the field, underscoring why he remains the focal point for Los Angeles.
The Clippers have fared well against Golden State this season, winning three of four meetings, a byproduct of their ability to control tempo and limit opposition runs in those matchups.
Injury and availability are part of the equation heading into the Play-In. Yanic Konan Niederhauser and Bradley Beal are out, Isaiah Jackson has been upgraded to probable, and the rest of the roster is expected to be available. With Leonard healthy and the matchup set, Los Angeles aims to push its season forward.
