Kawhi Leonard lost against the Celtics, but is James Harden playing?

The Los Angeles Clippers (24-18) are preparing for a challenging match against the current NBA champion Boston Celtics (30-13) on Wednesday night. However, the team will be without a star Kawhi Leonardwho has is turned off due to treating an injury to his right knee. Veteran guard James Harden is listed as questionable with right groin soreness, leaving his status uncertain ahead of tip-off at 10:00 p.m. ET.

Leonard’s absence is a significant blow to the Clippers. The two-time NBA champion has been returning to form since his return earlier this month, averaging 13.6 points, 2.6 rebounds, 1.6 assists and 1.2 steals per game while shooting 49.1% from the field and 35.3% from three-point range. In his latest outing, a Victory over the Los Angeles Lakers with a score of 116:102 on Monday, Leonard contributed 19 points on an efficient 9-for-13 shooting, along with four assists and a steal.

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Kawhi Leonard & James Harden Injury Status vs. Celtics

Harden, meanwhile, has been a key figure for the Clippers this seasonaveraged 21.3 points, 8.1 assists, 5.8 rebounds and 1.4 steals per game. Despite shooting 39.4% from the field in his career, Harden is still a key playmaker and scorer for Los Angeles. He last played in Monday’s 112-99 loss to the Chicago Bulls, recording 17 points, 10 assists, five rebounds, a steal and a block. His availability will be critical as the Clippers prepare to face one of the league’s best teams.

With Leonard out and Harden questionable, the Clippers will rely heavily on Norman Powell and Ivica Zubac to carry the load. Powell became the team’s leading scorer, averaging 23.7 points, 3.4 rebounds and 2.2 assists per game while shooting an impressive 49% from the field and 44.1% from the field. Zubac, who is dominant in the lineup, is averaging 15 points, 12.7 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 1.2 blocks per game, while shooting 61.5% from the field.

The Boston Celtics, led by Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, bring a balanced offense and elite defense to Los Angeles. The Celtics have solidified themselves as a contender in the Eastern Conference with their deep roster and consistent play.

The Clippers face an uphill battle without Leonard and possibly Harden. The performances of Powell and Zubac will be crucial if Los Angeles hopes to pull off an upset against the defending champions. Leonard’s ongoing knee management and Harden’s groin concerns underscore the team’s delicate balance as they navigate a grueling schedule and a competitive Western Conference.