The LA Clippers are the kings of the weekend this week as they will be playing against the Memphis Grizzlies as part of NBA Saturdays on 4th January and then against the New York Knicks as part of NBA Sundays on 5th January, with both games taking place at the iconic Staples Center in the heart of Los Angeles.
The NBA Sundays game between the Clippers and the Knicks will be broadcast on Sky Sports Arena from 8:30pm.
New York Knicks @ LA Clippers – Sunday, Jan. 5
REASONS TO WATCH
- Kawhi Leonard and Paul George are the names on the marquee. The Clippers have a second dynamic duo in Montrezl Harrell and three-time NBA Sixth Man of the Year Lou Williams, who were the highest-scoring tandem in NBA history last season.
- LA’s perimeter defense is special. Kawhi Leonard is a two-time Kia NBA Defensive Player of the Year, Paul George was a finalist for last season’s award and Patrick Beverley – like Leonard and George – has made multiple NBA All-Defensive Teams.
- The Knicks are high on second-year players Kevin Knox and Mitchell Robinson. Knox, 20, was the Eastern Conference Rookie of the Month for December last season. Robinson, 21, ranked second in the NBA in blocks as a rookie despite averaging only 20.6 minutes.
- Julius Randle is one of the league’s more unique players. He has the build of a power forward but can handle the ball like a guard. After a slow start, Randle is starting to resemble the player who had a career season last year with the Pelicans.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Patrick Beverley, Clippers: Beverley is one of the league’s foremost perimeter defenders and all-around irritants. He sets the tone for the Clippers with his relentless energy.
Landry Shamet, Clippers: Shamet began the season as a starter before an ankle injury and Paul George’s return shifted him to a bench role. Shamet is a dangerous three-point shooter with a great feel.
RJ Barrett, Knicks: Barrett is already playing big minutes and putting up impressive numbers for a rookie. He ranks second on the team in minutes and third in scoring.
Marcus Morris Sr., Knicks: Morris Sr. has been the Knicks most consistent player this season, posting career highs in scoring and three-point field goal percentage.
DID YOU KNOW?
- RJ Barrett is the son of Rowan Barrett, who played college basketball at St. John’s, professionally overseas and for Team Canada with two-time Kia NBA MVP and RJ’s godfather, Steve Nash
- RJ Barrett is the Knicks highest draft pick (No. 3) since Patrick Ewing was taken first overall in 1985
- Clippers coach Doc Rivers played parts of three seasons for the Knicks (1992-95)
- Clippers forward Moe Harkless born and raised in New York City and played college basketball at St. John’s
- Canadian rookie Mfiondu Kabengele’s mother is one of the sisters of Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo
