Sports
Clippers Aim to Extend Wizards’ Losing Streak in Thursday Showdown
LOS ANGELES, Calif. — The struggling Washington Wizards (6-36) face the Los Angeles Clippers (24-18) on Thursday at Intuit Dome, with tip-off scheduled for 10:30 p.m. ET. The Clippers, who lead the season series 1-0 after a dominant 121-96 victory on Nov. 27, aim to capitalize on the Wizards’ ongoing woes.
The Wizards enter the game on an 11-game losing streak, including a 111-88 defeat to the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday. Rookie guard Bilal Coulibaly led Washington with 17 points, but the team struggled to contain Lakers forward Anthony Davis, who recorded 29 points, 16 rebounds, and 4 blocks.
Meanwhile, the Clippers are coming off a hard-fought 117-113 overtime loss to the Boston Celtics on Wednesday. Despite the defeat, the Clippers covered the 12.5-point spread, with Derrick Jones Jr. scoring a season-high 29 points and Kevin Porter Jr. adding 26 points.
The Clippers have been strong at home, winning six of their last seven games. Their defense ranks third in the NBA, allowing just 106.6 points per game. In contrast, the Wizards have only one road win this season, dating back to Oct. 28, and are in the midst of a grueling six-game road trip.
Betting odds favor the Clippers, with a -14.5 point spread (-110). The Clippers’ depth and defensive prowess make them a formidable opponent, even with key players sidelined. The Wizards, on the other hand, have struggled to find consistency, particularly on the road.
In their last 10 meetings, the over/under has gone 6-4. However, with the Clippers’ strong defense and the Wizards’ offensive struggles, the total remains uncertain. Analysts recommend avoiding the over/under bet due to conflicting trends.
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