Lakers vs Clippers Game Preview: Injury Report, How to Watch, Start Time & NBA Cup Battle of L.A.

Lakers vs Clippers Game Preview: Battle of L.A. Returns with NBA Cup Stakes on the Line

The Lakers vs Clippers rivalry reignites on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, as the two Los Angeles teams face off at Crypto.com Arena in a pivotal NBA Cup group stage matchup. With both teams entering the game undefeated in Group B play (2-0), this Battle of L.A. carries significant tournament implications beyond just city bragging rights.

For the first time in recent memory, the Lakers (12-4 record) are significantly outperforming the Clippers (5-12 record) to start the season. The purple and gold sit in second place in the Western Conference, while their cross-town rivals struggle with injuries and inconsistency despite James Harden averaging 27.8 points per game.

If you're looking for complete Lakers vs Clippers game information—including start time, how to watch, live stream options, injury reports, key matchups, and betting odds—this comprehensive preview has everything you need to know before tip-off.

Lakers vs Clippers: Start Time, TV Channel & How to Watch Live Stream

Game Information at a Glance:

🏀 Teams: Los Angeles Lakers (12-4) vs LA Clippers (5-12)

📅 Date: Tuesday, November 25, 2025

⏰ Start Time: 8:00 PM PT / 11:00 PM ET

🏟️ Venue: Crypto.com Arena (formerly Staples Center), Los Angeles, CA

📺 TV Broadcast: NBC, Spectrum SportsNet

📱 Live Stream: Peacock (NBC streaming service)

🎙️ Radio: ESPN LA 710 AM, Tu Liga Radio 1330 AM (Spanish)

🏆 Tournament: NBA Cup Group B Game (Both teams 2-0 in group play)

How to Watch Lakers vs Clippers Online:

Peacock Streaming:

• Subscription Required: $5.99/month (Premium) or $11.99/month (Premium Plus)
• Free Trial: 7-day free trial available for new subscribers
• Devices: Available on iOS, Android, Roku, Apple TV, Fire TV, Smart TVs
• Benefits: Stream all NBC NBA games plus exclusive content

Spectrum SportsNet:

• For Los Angeles Area Cable Subscribers: Channel 691 (SD), 1691 (HD)
• Spectrum Streaming: Available via Spectrum TV app for subscribers
• Geographic Restriction: Only available in Southern California region

NBC Network:

• Broadcast Coverage: Free over-the-air in Los Angeles market
• Antenna Required: Use digital antenna for free HD broadcast
• National Coverage: Check local NBC affiliate for availability

NBA League Pass Blackout:

• ⚠️ Warning: Lakers vs Clippers will be blacked out on NBA League Pass in the Los Angeles market due to local broadcast rights
• Alternative: League Pass works for out-of-market viewers only

International Viewing Options:

Canada: TSN, Sportsnet (check local listings)
UK: Sky Sports NBA
Australia: ESPN Australia, Kayo Sports
Philippines: NBA League Pass Asia
Latin America: ESPN Latin America

Lakers vs Clippers Injury Report: Who's Playing, Who's Out

Lakers Injury Report (Updated November 25, 2025):

❌ OUT:

Deandre Ayton - Center

• Injury: Right knee contusion
• Status: Ruled OUT for Tuesday's game
• Timeline: JJ Redick says MRI came back "clean," expected return end of week
• Impact: Major loss against Ivica Zubac and Clippers' frontcourt

✅ AVAILABLE:

LeBron James - Forward

• Status: PLAYING (No injury designation)
• Recent Form: Averaging 25.3 PPG, 8.1 APG, 7.9 RPG this season
• Age 40 Watch: Playing in 40th season, still elite production

Luka Doncic - Guard/Forward

• Status: PLAYING (No injury designation)
• Clippers Rivalry: Undefeated vs Clippers since joining Lakers
• Recent Stats: 31.2 PPG, 9.8 APG, 8.3 RPG in last 5 games

Austin Reaves - Guard

• Status: PLAYING
• Breakout Season: Averaging career-high 18.7 PPG

Anthony Davis - Forward/Center

• Status: PLAYING (Recovered from earlier injury)
• Season Stats: 28.1 PPG, 11.4 RPG, 2.8 BPG

Clippers Injury Report (Updated November 25, 2025):

❌ OUT:

Bradley Beal - Guard

• Injury: Left hip fracture
• Status: OUT indefinitely
• Timeline: Expected to miss 3-4 more weeks
• Impact: Major scoring threat sidelined (was averaging 22.4 PPG)

Derrick Jones Jr. - Forward

• Injury: Right knee sprain
• Status: OUT
• Timeline: Week-to-week evaluation
• Impact: Key defensive wing unavailable

Jordan Miller - Guard

• Injury: Left hamstring injury
• Status: OUT
• Timeline: Day-to-day re-evaluation

❓ QUESTIONABLE:

Bogdan Bogdanovic - Guard

• Injury: Left hip contusion
• Status: QUESTIONABLE (game-time decision)
• If Playing: Would provide crucial shooting off bench

✅ AVAILABLE:

James Harden - Guard

• Status: PLAYING
• Carrying the Team: 27.8 PPG, 8.4 APG, 5.8 RPG this season
• Pressure: Must deliver with limited supporting cast

Kawhi Leonard - Forward

• Status: RECENTLY RETURNED from injury management
• Workload: Still on minutes restriction, won't play back-to-backs
• Rust Factor: Working back to All-Star form after extended absence

Ivica Zubac - Center

• Status: PLAYING
• Hot Streak: Averaging 17.0 PPG, 11.6 RPG this season
• Matchup Advantage: With Ayton out, Zubac could dominate inside

Injury Impact Analysis:

Lakers' Concern: Without Deandre Ayton, the Lakers lose their primary big man to defend Ivica Zubac, who has historically dominated against L.A. Jaxson Hayes will likely start at center, creating a significant mismatch.

Clippers' Struggles: Bradley Beal's absence eliminates a 20+ PPG scorer, putting even more pressure on James Harden to carry the offensive load. Without Derrick Jones Jr., the Clippers lack perimeter defense to slow Luka Doncic.

Winner of Injury Battle: Despite missing Ayton, the Lakers have the advantage because their core four (LeBron, Luka, AD, Reaves) are all healthy, while the Clippers are missing critical rotation players.

Key Storylines: What to Watch in Lakers vs Clippers

1. Luka Doncic's Clippers Rivalry Continues

Perhaps the most compelling storyline for Tuesday's Battle of L.A. is Luka Doncic's documented hatred of the Clippers.

Historical Context:

Dating back to his Dallas Mavericks days, Luka has openly admitted he has "special motivation" every time he faces the Clippers. The rivalry intensified during the 2020 and 2021 NBA Playoffs when Doncic's Mavericks battled the Clippers in two consecutive first-round series.

Memorable Moments:

• 2020 Playoffs: Luka averaged 31.0 PPG against Clippers in Round 1 (Clippers won 4-2)
• 2021 Playoffs: Luka averaged 35.7 PPG against Clippers in Round 1 (Clippers won 4-3)
• Iconic Quote: "I always get up for the Clippers. They know why."

Since Joining the Lakers:

The most remarkable stat: The Lakers have not lost to the Clippers since Doncic joined the team via trade. While the sample size is still relatively small (this is one of their first meetings this season), Luka's intensity level visibly increases when facing his old playoff rivals.

What to Expect Tuesday:

Expect Luka to be extra locked in for this matchup. His preparation level for Clippers games is legendary, and with NBA Cup stakes on the line, he'll likely come out aggressive from tip-off. Watch for:

• Increased isolation plays targeting Clippers defenders
• Trash talk with Kawhi Leonard and James Harden
• Emotional celebrations after big plays
• High usage rate (35%+ of Lakers' possessions)

Betting Angle: Luka Doncic over 32.5 points is a strong play given his history vs the Clippers.

2. How Will Lakers Replace Deandre Ayton Against Ivica Zubac?

The biggest tactical challenge for Lakers head coach JJ Redick is figuring out how to slow down Ivica Zubac without Deandre Ayton.

The Problem:

Zubac is having a career year, averaging 17.0 points and 11.6 rebounds per game. More concerningly for the Lakers, Zubac has historically dominated L.A.'s frontcourt dating back years, even before the Luka Doncic trade.

The Matchup Disadvantage:

With Ayton ruled out, the Lakers' center rotation consists of:

• Jaxson Hayes (likely starter): Athletic but undersized at 6'11", struggles with strength
• Christian Wood: Offensive-minded big who's not a strong post defender
• Max Christie (small-ball center): Emergency option only

None of these options can physically match Zubac's 7'0", 240-pound frame and post-up prowess.

Potential Lakers Solutions:

Option 1: Double-Team Zubac Early

• Send weak-side help whenever Zubac touches the ball in the post
• Force role players like Norman Powell and PJ Tucker to beat them
• Risk: Leaves shooters open for three-pointers

Option 2: Go Small and Fast

• Use Anthony Davis at center with smaller, quicker lineup
• Run Clippers off the floor with pace and transition opportunities
• Risk: Rebounding disadvantage, Zubac could feast on second-chance points

Option 3: Physical Harassment

• Have Jaxson Hayes play ultra-aggressive, foul early to send message
• Rotate multiple bodies (Hayes, Wood, even AD) to wear Zubac down
• Risk: Foul trouble for limited big man rotation

Most Likely Strategy:

Expect JJ Redick to employ a combination approach: Start Hayes, play physical early, and if Zubac gets going, shift to small-ball with Anthony Davis at center for stretches. The Lakers will also need to dominate transition basketball to offset Zubac's half-court advantages.

Over/Under Watch: Ivica Zubac over 15.5 points, 10.5 rebounds is a tempting bet given the matchup.

3. NBA Cup Stakes: Winner Takes Control of Group B

This isn't just another regular-season Lakers vs Clippers game—NBA Cup tournament implications make it must-win for both teams.

Current NBA Cup Group B Standings:

🥇 Lakers: 2-0 in Group B (12-4 overall) • +8.5 point differential
🥇 Clippers: 2-0 in Group B (5-12 overall) • +6.3 point differential
Warriors: 1-1 in Group B (11-5 overall) • +4.2 point differential
Kings: 1-1 in Group B (8-8 overall) • -2.1 point differential
Suns: 0-2 in Group B (9-7 overall) • -3.8 point differential

What's at Stake:

The winner of Tuesday's game will have a commanding lead in Group B with a 3-0 record, significantly increasing their chances of advancing to the NBA Cup knockout round.

Tiebreaker Rules:

If teams finish with identical records, tiebreakers are decided by:

1. Head-to-head record
2. Point differential in group games
3. Total points scored in group games
4. Overall regular season record

Why This Matters for the Lakers:

The Lakers have played well in NBA Cup games this season, viewing the tournament as an opportunity to build chemistry and playoff intensity in November/December. Winning the group would mean:

• ✅ Advancing to knockout round in Las Vegas
• ✅ Extra games for LeBron James to build legacy (he loves in-season tournament)
• ✅ $500,000 per player bonus if they win the entire tournament
• ✅ Momentum boost heading into mid-season

Why This Matters for the Clippers:

For a struggling 5-12 team, the NBA Cup represents a potential season-saving opportunity. Winning the tournament could:

• ✅ Salvage what's been a disappointing start
• ✅ Build team chemistry and confidence
• ✅ Prove the Clippers can compete despite injuries
• ✅ Provide financial motivation ($500K per player)

Competitive Intensity:

Expect this game to have playoff-level intensity despite being late November. Both teams know the winner takes a huge step toward advancing, while the loser faces an uphill battle with Warriors lurking at 1-1.

Betting Line Impact: The added stakes likely keep this game competitive; consider Clippers +7.5 spread as a value play.

LeBron James vs James Harden: Battle of Future Hall of Famers

One of the most intriguing individual matchups features two of the greatest players of their generation: LeBron James and James Harden.

LeBron James (Age 40) - Still Elite in Year 22

2025-26 Season Stats:

• Points: 25.3 PPG
• Assists: 8.1 APG
• Rebounds: 7.9 RPG
• Field Goal %: 51.2%
• Three-Point %: 38.4%

Remarkable at 40:

LeBron turned 40 years old in December 2024, yet he's still producing at an All-Star level in his 22nd NBA season. He's defying Father Time by:

• Leading the Lakers in assists (8.1 APG)
• Shooting career-best percentage from three (38.4%)
• Playing 35.2 minutes per game (second-most on team)
• Recording multiple 30+ point games this month

Playing Alongside Luka:

The LeBron-Luka partnership has been fascinating. Rather than clash, the two superstars have found synergy:

• LeBron often plays off-ball, spotting up for threes while Luka runs pick-and-roll
• In late-game situations, they alternate possessions
• Defensively, LeBron guards wings while Luka handles guards

Matchup vs Harden:

LeBron and Harden have faced each other 57 times in their careers, with LeBron's teams holding a 37-20 edge. Expect LeBron to guard Harden in crucial possessions, using his size and IQ to disrupt Harden's rhythm.

James Harden (Age 36) - Carrying the Clippers

2025-26 Season Stats:

• Points: 27.8 PPG (team leader)
• Assists: 8.4 APG (team leader)
• Rebounds: 5.8 RPG
• Field Goal %: 44.2%
• Three-Point %: 36.1%

One-Man Show:

With Bradley Beal, Derrick Jones Jr., and others injured, Harden has been forced to shoulder an enormous offensive load. He's currently:

• Taking 21.3 field goal attempts per game (career high)
• Leading the league in minutes played (37.8 per game)
• Posting usage rate of 33.4% (top 5 in NBA)

Vintage Harden Performances:

We've seen flashes of Houston Rockets-era Harden this season, including:

• 42-point explosion vs Denver (November 18)
• Back-to-back 35+ point games last week
• Multiple step-back three-pointer highlights going viral

The Challenge:

Harden's problem isn't personal performance—it's that he needs help. When defenses load up on him (which the Lakers certainly will), role players must step up. Without Beal, that support has been inconsistent.

Head-to-Head History:

Harden is 20-37 lifetime against LeBron-led teams, but he's averaged 27.4 PPG in those matchups. He's never backed down from the challenge.

Who Wins the Superstar Battle?

Edge: LeBron James and Lakers

While Harden may score more individual points (he's had to), LeBron has significantly better supporting cast with Luka Doncic, Anthony Davis, and Austin Reaves. Basketball is a team sport, and the Lakers' depth advantage should prove decisive.

Prop Bet Consideration:

• LeBron James over 7.5 assists (he'll facilitate more with Harden guarded by others)
• James Harden over 28.5 points (forced to score with limited help)

Lakers vs Clippers Betting Odds, Spread & Predictions

Current Betting Lines (as of November 25, 2025):

Point Spread:

• Lakers: -7.5 (-110)
• Clippers: +7.5 (-110)

Moneyline:

• Lakers: -320
• Clippers: +260

Total (Over/Under):

• O/U: 227.5 points

Popular Player Props:

Luka Doncic:

• Points: 32.5 (over -115 / under -105)
• Assists: 9.5 (over -110 / under -110)
• Rebounds: 8.5 (over -105 / under -115)

LeBron James:

• Points: 24.5 (over -110 / under -110)
• Assists: 7.5 (over -120 / under +100)
• Rebounds: 7.5 (over -105 / under -115)

James Harden:

• Points: 28.5 (over -110 / under -110)
• Assists: 8.5 (over +100 / under -120)

Anthony Davis:

• Points: 26.5 (over -110 / under -110)
• Rebounds: 10.5 (over -115 / under -105)

Expert Predictions & Betting Picks:

Straight-Up Winner: Lakers

The Lakers should win this game based on: ✅ Superior overall record (12-4 vs 5-12)
✅ Playing at home where they're 7-1 this season
✅ Healthier roster (4 stars playing vs 2 for Clippers)
✅ Luka's motivation against Clippers
✅ NBA Cup stakes favor more desperate Lakers

Against the Spread: Clippers +7.5 ⭐ BEST BET

While the Lakers should win, 7.5 points is too many for several reasons:

• Clippers are 9-7-1 ATS this season (covering machine)
• James Harden keeps games close when he's locked in
• Rivalry games typically stay competitive
• Clippers have nothing to lose, play loose
• Lakers without Ayton creates some vulnerability

Over/Under: OVER 227.5 ⭐ STRONG PLAY

Take the OVER for these reasons:

• Lakers rank 3rd in pace (100.2 possessions per game)
• Clippers rank 7th in pace (99.1 possessions per game)
• Both teams weak defensively this season
• High-scoring superstars (Luka, LeBron, AD, Harden)
• NBA Cup games typically have playoff intensity but shooters get hot

Best Player Props:

🔥 HOT PICKS:

1. Luka Doncic OVER 32.5 points (-115) - Rivalry game, he'll hunt his shot
2. Ivica Zubac OVER 15.5 points (-110) - Ayton out, Zubac will feast
3. James Harden OVER 28.5 points (-110) - Must carry scoring load
4. LeBron James OVER 7.5 assists (-120) - Facilitator role with Luka scoring

❄️ FADE:

1. Austin Reaves UNDER 17.5 points - Luka and LeBron will dominate ball
2. Kawhi Leonard OVER 22.5 points - Still working back from injury, minutes restriction

Final Score Prediction:

Lakers 118, Clippers 112

Lakers win by 6 points, covering feels close but Clippers (+7.5) cash. Game goes OVER 227.5 with combined 230 points in competitive, high-scoring affair.

Lakers vs Clippers Season Series & Historical Rivalry

2025-26 Season Series:

Game 1: Tuesday, November 25, 2025 at Crypto.com Arena
Game 2: TBD (late December/January)
Game 3: TBD (February/March)
Game 4: TBD (late season)

Current Series: 0-0 (first meeting of season)

All-Time Battle of L.A. Record:

Regular Season (Franchise History):

• Lakers lead: 154-79 (.661 winning percentage)
• At Staples Center/Crypto.com Arena: Lakers lead 78-41
• Since Clippers became competitive (2010s): Much closer, roughly 50-50

Notable Playoff Meetings:

2020 Western Conference Semifinals:

• Lakers won 4-1
• LeBron James averaged 27.6 PPG
• Anthony Davis dominated with 29.8 PPG
• Kawhi Leonard struggled with 24.0 PPG on poor efficiency

Key Moments in Rivalry:

1. The Lob City Era Frustration (2011-2017)

• Chris Paul, Blake Griffin, DeAndre Jordan Clippers terrorized Lakers
• Clippers finally had better team during Lakers' rebuilding years
• Multiple seasons where Clippers won season series

2. LeBron's Arrival Changed Everything (2018)

• Lakers signed LeBron James as free agent
• Power dynamic shifted back toward purple and gold
• AD trade in 2019 cemented Lakers' superiority

3. 2020 Bubble Playoffs Dominance

• Lakers demolished Clippers 4-1 in conference semis
• Proved Lakers were still "LA's team" despite Clippers' hype
• Clippers' collapse became legendary (blew 3-1 lead to Denver in next round)

4. Luka Doncic Trade Impact (2024)

• Lakers acquired Luka from Mavericks in blockbuster trade
• Luka's Clippers rivalry intensified Battle of L.A.
• Lakers undefeated vs Clippers with Luka in uniform

Fan Perspective:

Lakers Fans' View:

• See Clippers as "little brother" trying to steal spotlight
• Frustrated when Clippers share Crypto.com Arena (formerly Staples Center)
• View Lakers as the "real" LA team with championship pedigree

Clippers Fans' View:

• Tired of living in Lakers' shadow
• Point to recent competitive success (2019-2021 playoff runs)
• Argue Clippers have been better team for several seasons

Reality: The Lakers have 17 NBA championships while the Clippers have zero championships in franchise history. Until the Clippers win a title, the Lakers will always be considered LA's premier franchise regardless of regular-season success.

Lakers Roster & Depth Chart for Clippers Game

Projected Starting Lineup:

PG: Luka Doncic

• Role: Primary ball-handler, pick-and-roll maestro
• Matchup: Will face James Harden defensively
• Keys: Control pace, hunt mismatches, limit turnovers

SG: Austin Reaves

• Role: Secondary playmaker, off-ball cutter
• Matchup: Norman Powell or Terance Mann
• Keys: Spot-up shooting, transition opportunities, screen assists

SF: LeBron James

• Role: Point forward, versatile defender, clutch closer
• Matchup: Kawhi Leonard (will switch frequently)
• Keys: Facilitate offense, conserve energy for 4th quarter

PF: Rui Hachimura

• Role: 3-and-D wing, floor spacer
• Matchup: PJ Tucker or Derrick Jones Jr. (if healthy)
• Keys: Corner three-point shooting, defend without fouling

C: Jaxson Hayes (replacing injured Deandre Ayton)

• Role: Rim protector, lob threat, energy big
• Matchup: Ivica Zubac (major disadvantage)
• Keys: Stay out of foul trouble, crash offensive glass

Key Bench Players:

Anthony Davis (will play 32-35 minutes, rests early)

• Closing lineup center
• Most important Laker along with Luka
• Matchup flexibility allows switching everything

D'Angelo Russell

• Bench spark plug, instant offense
• Streaky shooter who can get hot quickly
• Defensive liability but offensive upside

Christian Wood

• Backup center option
• Better offensive player than Hayes but worse defender
• Could see action if Hayes struggles with Zubac

Max Christie

• Young wing defender
• Will get minutes guarding Kawhi or Harden
• Limited offensively but solid 3-and-D potential

Cam Reddish

• Perimeter defender off bench
• Athletic wing who can guard multiple positions
• Inconsistent shooting limits minutes

Clippers Roster & Depth Chart for Lakers Game

Projected Starting Lineup:

PG: James Harden

• Role: Offensive engine, primary scorer and facilitator
• Matchup: Will see Luka, Reaves, LeBron at different points
• Keys: Draw fouls, control tempo, limit turnovers

SG: Norman Powell

• Role: Secondary scorer, off-ball shooter
• Matchup: Austin Reaves
• Keys: Catch-and-shoot threes, transition baskets

SF: Kawhi Leonard (minutes restriction, recently returned)

• Role: Two-way star, isolation scorer
• Matchup: LeBron James primarily
• Keys: Knock off rust, manage workload, stay healthy

PF: PJ Tucker

• Role: Veteran defender, corner shooter
• Matchup: LeBron or Rui Hachimura
• Keys: Physical defense, spacing, rebounding

C: Ivica Zubac

• Role: Starting center, interior presence
• Matchup: Jaxson Hayes (massive advantage for Zubac)
• Keys: Dominate paint, offensive rebounds, pick-and-roll finishes

Key Bench Players:

Terance Mann

• High-energy wing off bench
• Solid defender who can guard 2-4 positions
• Inconsistent shooter but attacks rim well

Bones Hyland

• Instant offense guard
• Microwave scorer who can get hot
• Defensive liability, high-variance player

Nicolas Batum

• Veteran glue guy
• Smart defender, willing passer
• Shooting has declined but still valuable

Kobe Brown (if Bogdanovic sits)

• Young wing getting more minutes with injuries
• Developing 3-and-D potential
• Opportunity to showcase skills

Mason Plumlee

• Backup center
• Traditional big, good passer for his position
• Limited offensively but solid defender

Lakers vs Clippers: Keys to Victory for Each Team

Lakers' Path to Victory:

1. Attack in Transition

• Push pace with Luka and LeBron leading breaks
• Capitalize on Clippers' older, less athletic roster
• Goal: 20+ fastbreak points

2. Make Harden Work Defensively

• Target Harden in pick-and-roll repeatedly
• Force him to chase Reaves and Christie off screens
• Wear him down so offense suffers late

3. Survive Without Ayton

• Double-team Zubac early and often
• Get Anthony Davis more minutes at center
• Crash offensive glass to offset rebounding disadvantage

4. Win the Three-Point Battle

• Lakers shoot 37.2% from three (10th in NBA)
• Generate open corner threes for Rui and Reaves
• Target 15+ made threes

5. Close with Big Three

• Luka, LeBron, AD lineup in final 6 minutes
• Let superstars decide game in clutch
• Trust stars to execute in crunch time

Clippers' Path to Victory:

1. Feed Zubac Early and Often

• Exploit Lakers' center weakness immediately
• Get Jaxson Hayes in foul trouble
• Establish inside-out game

2. Harden Heroics

• Need 35+ point game from The Beard
• Draw fouls (8+ free throw attempts)
• Take over in 4th quarter

3. Kawhi Efficiency

• Need productive 25 minutes from Kawhi
• 20+ points on 50%+ shooting
• Defend LeBron without fouling

4. Win Turnover Battle

• Force 15+ Lakers turnovers
• Keep own turnovers under 12
• Convert turnovers into transition baskets

5. Get Hot from Three

• Need role players (Powell, Mann, Batum) to knock down open shots
• Target 40%+ team three-point shooting
• Make 14+ threes to keep pace

X-Factors & Dark Horse Candidates

Lakers X-Factors:

Austin Reaves If Reaves has one of his 25-point explosions, the Lakers become nearly unbeatable. His ability to playmake, score, and defend makes him the ultimate wild card.

Jaxson Hayes' Foul Management If Hayes picks up 2 quick fouls, the Lakers' entire defensive scheme falls apart. His ability to stay on the floor without fouling is massive.

Clippers X-Factors:

Norman Powell's Shooting Powell is capable of 6-7 three-pointers on any given night. If he gets hot, he singlehandedly keeps the Clippers competitive.

Bogdan Bogdanovic's Health If Bogdanovic (questionable with hip) plays and contributes 12-15 points off the bench, it significantly helps the Clippers' depleted rotation.

What Analysts & Experts Are Saying

ESPN's Brian Windhorst: "The Lakers should win this game comfortably, but don't sleep on James Harden's ability to keep games close. He's carrying that Clippers team on his back and knows how to make things interesting."

The Athletic's Shams Charania: "Luka Doncic vs the Clippers is must-watch TV. He genuinely hates playing against them and it brings out the best in his game. Expect fireworks."

FS1's Skip Bayless: "LeBron James at 40 years old is still better than everyone on the Clippers except James Harden. The Lakers have too much talent. Lakers by 12."

TNT's Charles Barkley: "The Clippers are a mess right now. They're old, they're hurt, and they can't defend anybody. Lakers are gonna run them out of the gym."

Bleacher Report's Zach Buckley: "This game means more for the Clippers. They NEED to win to salvage their season and stay alive in NBA Cup. Expect them to play desperate basketball."

Lakers vs Clippers FAQs

Q: What time does Lakers vs Clippers start?
A: Tip-off is scheduled for 8:00 PM PT / 11:00 PM ET on Tuesday, November 25, 2025.

Q: What channel is Lakers vs Clippers on?
A: The game airs on NBC and Spectrum SportsNet. You can also stream on Peacock.

Q: Is the Lakers vs Clippers game on NBA League Pass?
A: No, the game will be blacked out on NBA League Pass in the Los Angeles market due to local broadcast rights. It's available on League Pass for out-of-market viewers only.

Q: Who has a better record, Lakers or Clippers?
A: The Lakers have a significantly better record at 12-4 compared to the Clippers' 5-12 mark.

Q: Is Deandre Ayton playing tonight for the Lakers?
A: No, Deandre Ayton is ruled OUT with a right knee contusion. His MRI came back clean and he's expected to return later this week.

Q: Is Kawhi Leonard playing for the Clippers?
A: Yes, Kawhi Leonard is expected to play but will be on a minutes restriction as he works back from injury management.

Q: What are the NBA Cup standings for Group B?
A: Both the Lakers and Clippers are 2-0 in NBA Cup group play. The winner of Tuesday's game takes sole possession of first place at 3-0.

Q: How many times do the Lakers and Clippers play this season?
A: The Lakers and Clippers play 4 times during the 2025-26 regular season.

Q: What's the all-time record between Lakers and Clippers?
A: The Lakers lead the all-time series 154-79 (.661 winning percentage).

Q: Can I bet on Lakers vs Clippers legally?
A: Yes, sports betting is legal in many states including California (where this game is played). Check your local laws and use licensed sportsbooks.

The Bottom Line: Lakers vs Clippers Preview

Tuesday night's Lakers vs Clippers Battle of L.A. offers everything basketball fans could want: playoff-intensity NBA Cup stakes, superstar matchups (LeBron vs Harden, Luka vs Kawhi), and genuine rivalry bad blood.

Why You Should Watch:

✅ Luka Doncic's Clippers Revenge Game - He's undefeated vs LA since joining Lakers
✅ LeBron at 40 - Watching greatness in Year 22 of an unprecedented career
✅ NBA Cup Drama - Winner takes commanding 3-0 group lead
✅ James Harden's Heroics - The Beard trying to singlehandedly save Clippers' season
✅ Battle of Los Angeles - City bragging rights on the line

Game Prediction:

The Lakers should win based on superior health, better roster depth, and home-court advantage. However, the Clippers will fight desperately to stay alive in NBA Cup contention, and James Harden is capable of keeping any game close.

Final Score: Lakers 118, Clippers 112

Luka Doncic continues his dominance over the Clippers with 34 points, LeBron James adds 26 points and 9 assists, and Anthony Davis controls the paint with 28 points. James Harden goes down swinging with 37 points, but it's not enough as the Lakers improve to 13-4 and 3-0 in NBA Cup play.

Set your alarms for 8:00 PM PT and don't miss the Battle of L.A.! 🏀💜💛