Pacific Division Updates: Lue Eyes Clippers Turnaround, Booker Out, Lakers Drop Cup Court
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Los Angeles — Despite sitting at 6-18 and tied for 13th in the Western Conference, the Los Angeles Clippers believe they are close to changing course. Head coach Tyronn Lue said the club has been “one big shot, one big rebound, one less turnover” away from several victories after narrow losses in Memphis and Minnesota. The team is three games behind the West’s final play-in position.
Injuries continue to shape the Clippers’ season. Bradley Beal is out for the year after six appearances, Kawhi Leonard has played in 14 games, and Derrick Jones Jr. has been shelved with an MCL sprain since mid-November. Forward Nicolas Batum acknowledged the challenge of daily lineup changes but stressed, “We have more than enough to beat teams and to be winning games.”
Booker Sits Out Cup Matchup
Phoenix guard Devin Booker, recovering from a groin strain, was ruled out shortly before the Suns’ NBA Cup contest in Oklahoma City. Head coach Jordan Ott said Booker is “making great progress” and likely needs only “a couple of days” before returning to action.
Lakers Bench Slippery Tournament Floor
The Los Angeles Lakers will use their standard court for tonight’s home game against San Antonio after complaints that the special NBA Cup surface unveiled on Nov. 25 was too slick. Rui Hachimura recalled the initial outing on the alternate floor as “oily, slippery,” noting that “everybody was on the floor” during play.
Post Strengthens Role in Golden State
Golden State center Quinten Post, who did not debut until after Christmas last season, said a preseason weight-room regimen has helped him withstand the league’s physicality. The second-year big man credited playoff lessons against Houston for spurring the offseason focus.
Kings List LaVine, Schröder on Injury Report
Sacramento has ruled Zach LaVine out of Thursday’s meeting with Denver due to soreness in his right thumb. Guard Dennis Schröder is listed as doubtful with a strained right hip flexor.
Source: Hoops Rumors
