NBA, LA Clippers vs LA Lakers 2019-20: Match preview and team news

Los Angeles Clippers and Los Angeles Lakers are set to lock horns on the opening day of the NBA 2019/20 season, which is set to take their rivalry to another level. Clippers, who have made a major acquisition in Kawhi Leonard, are the early title favourites heading into the new season. On the other hand, the LeBron James-led Lakers are themselves looking for a major statement after missing out on the playoffs last season. We look at the team news, match preview ahead of the game.

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Team news and Pre-season form: Clippers vs Lakers

LA Clippers:

The pre-season saw the Clippers lose thrice as coach Doc Rivers continued to tinker with his starting five.

The Clippers added Kawhi Leonard to their roster from last season's champions Toronto Raptors and Paul George into their squad. Suddenly, they have become the team to beat this season. The team also extended Patrick Beverley’s contract in a solid decision by both sides. Also, an underrated acquisition made by the Clippers saw Maurice Harkless join the side to add more to their bench strength.

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Key arrivals: Paul George (trade), Kawhi Leonard (free agent), Maurice Harkless (trade), Patrick Patterson (free agent), Mfiondu Kabengele (draft)

Key departures: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Garrett Temple, Wilson Chandler, Danilo Gallinari

Amir Coffey, Rodney McGruder and Paul George are currently out with injuries for the Clippers.

LA Lakers

The Lakers had a mixed pre-season, suffering three losses while winning two. James, who was majorly distracted due to the ongoing rift between the NBA and China, would be hoping to move past the scenario and focus on the upcoming season.

Frank Vogel replaced Walton as a coach and brings the experience that the latter lacked. The Lakers addressed their shooting needs, signing Danny Green and Jared Dudley. Also, new signing Anthony Davis has the unique skills to complement LeBron James and restore the winning atmosphere at Staples Center

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Key arrivals: Anthony Davis (trade), DeMarcus Cousins (free agency), Avery Bradley (free agency), Danny Green (free agency), Jared Dudley (free agency), Dwight Howard (free agency), Frank Vogel (coach)

Key departures: Lonzo Ball, Josh Hart, Brandon Ingram, Luke Walton, Magic Johnson

DeMarcus Cousins is out for the season as he is suffering from a knee injury. He is joined by Alex Caruso and Dwight Howard on the treatment table. Kyle Kuzma is also out for the opener with a foot injury.

STARTING 5: 

LA Clippers

Patrick Beverley, Paul George, Kawhi Leonard, JaMychal Green, Ivica Zubac 

Key Reserves

Lou Williams, Montrezl Harrell, Landry Shamet 

LA Lakers

LeBron James, Anthony Davis, JaVale McGee, Rajon Rondo, Kyle Kuzma 

Key Reserves

Dwight Howard, Danny Green, Jared Dudley 

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When and where to watch

When: October 23, 2019, 8:00 AM IST

Where: SONY SIX, SONY LIV