LA’s Winning Run Tests Resilient Chicago Squad Despite Leonard’s Absence
The Los Angeles Clippers brought their red-hot form to Chicago on January 20, taking on a resilient Bulls squad looking to capitalize on mounting injuries affecting the visiting team. The Clippers, winners of 13 of their last 15 games, arrived at the United Center as one of the NBA’s most dangerous teams despite significant personnel challenges.
Clippers’ Momentum Despite Missing Their Star
Los Angeles has engineered one of the league’s most impressive turnarounds this season. After concerns about their playoff positioning early in the year, the Clippers surged into the Western Conference play-in picture and positioned themselves for a potential first-round matchup against defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder. However, the team faced a major setback with star forward Kawhi Leonard sidelined due to left knee injury, forcing the Clippers to lean heavily on James Harden’s offensive firepower and defensive depth.
Without Leonard, the Clippers are operating significantly below their ceiling—standing 4-8 in games without their star—yet still managed crucial victories through their recent winning streak. Harden averaged 26.1 points per game this season while distributing 8.1 assists, making him the primary offensive engine for L.A.’s road test in Chicago.
Bulls Banking on Health and Momentum
Chicago entered the matchup sitting just 4.5 games behind the Eastern Conference’s three seed, a surprisingly competitive position given their injury complications. The team was banking on Josh Giddey’s imminent return from hamstring issues to bolster their rotation, though his status remained uncertain heading into tipoff.
The Bulls had shown offensive promise in recent games, attempting 46 three-pointers in a prior victory and converting 20 of them—their best three-point shooting night since December 21. Coby White and Isaac Okoro led Chicago’s efforts as the team sought to maintain momentum at home against the streaking Clippers.
Injury Report: Both Teams Undermanned
The Clippers played without Leonard, Bogdan Bogdanovic (hamstring), Derrick Jones Jr. (MCL sprain), and Bradley Beal (left hip injury). Chicago was missing Zach Collins (right first toe) and Noa Essengue (shoulder), while Josh Giddey remained uncertain with his ongoing hamstring recovery. Patrick Williams was also listed as questionable with an ankle injury.
The second night of a back-to-back for Los Angeles—following a dramatic one-point victory over Washington—added another layer of complexity for a team already dealing with roster depth issues.
Matchup Implications
The contest represented a crucial test for both conferences. Chicago’s playoff positioning could improve significantly with a victory over a streaking team, while Los Angeles aimed to prove their winning formula could work even without Leonard and other key contributors, a critical indicator for potential postseason success.
