Brook Lopez, signed last offseason to back up Ivica Zubac, is expected to remain the Los Angeles Clippers’ first-string center for the balance of the schedule after Zubac was moved to the Indiana Pacers at the trade deadline.
The 37-year-old veteran, who had started only sporadically since Zubac sprained an ankle in December, said he has focused on staying prepared. “My goal is to help my team win in any way I can,” Lopez told reporters. In Friday’s loss to the Lakers, he produced 16 points and 10 rebounds while the offense flowed through him once Kawhi Leonard exited with left-ankle stiffness and Bennedict Mathurin fouled out.
Leonard Listed as Questionable
Leonard’s status for Sunday’s home game against the Orlando Magic is uncertain. After Friday’s contest, longtime opponent LeBron James praised Leonard, calling him “one of the league’s best players” despite his injury history and commending his perseverance.
Collins to Sit with Head and Neck Ailments
Forward John Collins will not play Sunday because of a head laceration and neck soreness sustained against the Lakers, according to the team’s injury report. The Clippers noted no signs of a concussion.
Garland Reflects on Cleveland Exit
Newly acquired guard Darius Garland told Andscape’s Marc J. Spears he expected to be traded from the Cleveland Cavaliers, largely due to a recurring toe injury that limited him to 26 games this season. Garland said agent Rich Paul warned him last summer that a move was likely and believes Cleveland favored James Harden’s postseason experience.
The Clippers continue their push for a postseason berth with Lopez anchoring the middle, while Leonard’s availability and Collins’ recovery remain key storylines in the coming days.
Source: Hoops Rumors
