Toronto Raptors vs LA Clippers predicted starting lineups and depth charts for Nov. 9 | 2024-25 NBA season
The Toronto Raptors get their first look at the LA Clippers on Saturday at the Intuit Dome. Toronto, which hasn’t played since Wednesday, hopes to pull an upset against Los Angeles. For the Raptors to accomplish their goal, they will have to do it without several key players due to injuries.
Fresh off a 107-98 win against the Sacramento Kings less than 24 hours ago, the Clippers host the injury-hampered visitors. James Harden and Co. might be on short rest, but they are healthy and riding a three-game winning streak. They are the favorites to hand another loss to the reeling Raptors.
Toronto Raptors vs LA Clippers: Injury Report
Toronto Raptors injury report
Scottie Barnes (eye), Bruce Brown (knee), Kelly Olynyk (back) and Ja’Kobe Walter (sprain) are out. Immanuel Quickley (pelvic) is questionable while Garrett Temple (back) is doubtful.
LA Clippers injury report
Mo Bamba (knee), Kawhi Leonard (knee) and P.J. Tucker (not with the team) are unavailable.
Toronto Raptors vs LA Clippers: Predicted starting lineups and depth charts
Toronto Raptors predicted starting lineup and depth chart
LA Clippers predicted starting lineup and depth chart
Toronto Raptors vs LA Clippers: Key matchups
James Harden vs. Davion Mitchell
Davion Mitchell built a reputation as a solid defender during his stint with the Sacramento Kings. Mitchell’s defensive prowess will be tested by James Harden, the engine that makes the Clippers’ offense hum.
Harden’s usage this season is 30.9%, his highest since during the 2019-20 season when he was with the Houston Rockets. Without Kawhi Leonard, Ty Lue has been leaning heavily on the former MVP. If Mitchell can slow him down, the Raptors might have a chance of pulling the rug from under the hosts.
Ivica Zubac vs. Jakob Poeltl
Ivica Zubac and Jakob Poeltl hardly get recognition for their performance. Both don’t appear in highlight reels but have been crucial to their respective teams. Zubac dominates the paint and is a threat for lobs and drop-offs. Harden’s drives have been quite effective because the Croatian has been impressive in catching most of his point guard’s passes.
Poeltl is a solid defender and rebounder. Zubac will not have an easy time jostling with him in the paint. The two centers don’t have outside shots, so their battle will all be inside the shaded lane.
Poeltl’s task, however, isn’t just to tangle with his fellow 7-footer. He must also cover for his teammates who aren’t good defenders. He has his work cut out against the Clippers.