The Los Angeles Clippers visit the San Antonio Spurs at the Frost Bank Center for a Western Conference showdown on New Year’s Eve. The Clippers come in at 19-13, holding the fifth seed in the West, while the Spurs sit at 16-16 in ninth place. The teams last met on November 4, with Los Angeles taking a 113-104 victory at home.
Both teams are looking to close the year on a high note. The Clippers are playing the second game of a back-to-back, following a 116-113 win over New Orleans on Monday. Meanwhile, the Spurs are returning home after a challenging four-game road trip where they lost three games by a combined 10 points.
Clippers Preview – Consistency in Focus for L.A.
The Clippers have been in solid form recently, winning five of their last six games. Norman Powell leads the scoring charge, including a 35-point performance in their win against the Pelicans. James Harden has been a key playmaker, adding 27 points and clutch free throws in the same game.
Los Angeles has been strong defensively, holding opponents to 109.6 points per game, ranking 14th in the league. Ivica Zubac has been dominant in the paint, recording 16 rebounds and 20 points in the previous matchup against the Pelicans. Despite injuries to Kawhi Leonard and Terance Mann, the Clippers’ depth has been effective.
As the middle game of a three-game road trip, the Clippers need to manage their energy and focus to handle San Antonio’s young star, Victor Wembanyama, who had a near triple-double in their last meeting.
Spurs Preview – Wembanyama Anchors San Antonio
San Antonio is leaning heavily on Victor Wembanyama, who is averaging 25.7 points and has led the team in scoring in 21 of his 27 games this season. Wembanyama scored 34 points in their recent narrow loss to Minnesota, his eighth 30-point game of the season. His impact extends to defense, where he ranks among the league’s top shot blockers.
The Spurs have struggled with consistency, particularly in late-game execution. Harrison Barnes has provided a veteran presence, contributing 24 points in their last outing. However, San Antonio’s bench production has been inconsistent, leaving more pressure on Wembanyama and the starting lineup.
At home, the Spurs have been competitive but will need to improve their defensive intensity against a Clippers team that thrives on ball movement and perimeter shooting.
Betting Prediction
The Spurs are slight favorites, listed at -4.5 with a total of 217.5. The Clippers have momentum and depth, while San Antonio relies heavily on Wembanyama’s production. L.A.’s experience and defense could be key in a tight matchup.
A predicted final score of 112-108 in favor of the Clippers suggests taking the points with Los Angeles. The under on the total also looks promising given both teams’ recent defensive performances.
Pick: Clippers +4.5, Under 217.5
