Los Angeles Lakers vs LA Clippers Prediction | 01.22.26
Last Updated: Jan 25, 2026 12:17 AM
Thursday, 22 Jan 2026
LAC -2.5
Los Angeles Lakers
W
W
L
L
W
26-17
VS
10:00 PM
LA Clippers
L
W
W
W
W
20-24
Game Spread
LAC -2.5
Total Points
Over
223.5
Tale of the Tape
LAL
Stat Comparison
LAC
104.0
PPG
112.0
34.0
RPG
49.0
24.0
APG
23.0
45.5
FG%
47.6
33.3
3P%
38.7
Detailed Analysis
Los Angeles Lakers vs LA Clippers Prediction, Odds & NBA Picks | 22-01-2026
In a highly anticipated regular-season matchup, the Los Angeles Lakers (26-16) face off against their crosstown rivals, the LA Clippers (19-24), on January 22, 2026, at 10:00 PM EST in the Intuit Dome, Inglewood. This clash promises a compelling battle for L.A. supremacy, with both teams navigating significant roster challenges.
Los Angeles Lakers vs LA Clippers Matchup Preview
Los Angeles Lakers Key Stats & Trends
The Lakers enter this contest with a solid record, largely propelled by Luka Doncic’s MVP-caliber numbers: 33.5 PPG, 7.7 RPG, 8.7 APG, 1.6 SPG, and 0.5 BPG. His game control and clutch scoring are unmatched. Deandre Ayton provides a strong paint presence, leading the team with 8.8 rebounds per game. However, the Lakers’ reliance on their primary stars means depth challenges could be exploited.
Injury Report Los Angeles Lakers
- Austin Reaves (Out): Reaves (calf) is out for Thursday’s game against the Clippers, Dave McMenamin of ESPN.com reports.
- Adou Thiero (Out): Thiero will miss at least four weeks with a right MCL sprain, Law Murray of The Athletic reports.
LA Clippers Key Stats & Trends
The Clippers, despite a sub-.500 record, possess formidable talent. James Harden orchestrates their offense, averaging 26.0 PPG and 8.0 APG, showcasing elite scoring and playmaking. Ivica Zubac anchors their interior defense and rebounding, leading with 10.8 boards per game. The Clippers’ main challenge is integrating star power amidst numerous injuries, demanding elevated performances from available players.
Injury Report LA Clippers
- Bogdan Bogdanovic (Out): Bogdanovic (hamstring) is listed as out for Thursday’s game against the Lakers, NBA writer Justin Russo reports.
- Kawhi Leonard (Out): Leonard (knee) is questionable to play Thursday versus the Lakers, NBA writer Justin Russo reports.
- Derrick Jones Jr. (Out): Jones has been diagnosed with a Grade 2 MCL sprain in his right knee and will be re-evaluated in six weeks, Shams Charania of ESPN reports.
- Bradley Beal (Out): Beal will undergo season-ending surgery on his left hip, ESPN’s Shams Charania reports.
Los Angeles Lakers vs LA Clippers Prediction & Best Bet
This L.A. derby presents a fascinating dynamic. While the Lakers boast a superior record and the dominant force of Luka Doncic, their depth takes a hit with Austin Reaves sidelined. The Clippers, despite a more extensive injury list, including the potential absence of Kawhi Leonard, still possess enough firepower with James Harden to make this a tightly contested affair, especially on their home court. Harden’s ability to single-handedly carry the offense, combined with Zubac’s interior presence, could be enough to edge out the Lakers. We anticipate a resilient Clippers performance.
Our definitive pick for this intense rivalry game is LA Clippers -1.5 (Spread).
Considering the offensive talent on both sides – Doncic’s 33.5 PPG and Harden’s 26.0 PPG – and the potential for a high-paced, competitive game, the total points line of 224.5 appears reachable. Both teams have the capacity to exploit defensive lapses. Therefore, we are confidently taking the over on the total points.
Last 5 Games: LAL
Form:
WWLLW
VS
@ Denver
W 115-107
PTS
Doncic 38
REB
Doncic 13
AST
Doncic 10
VS
vs Toronto
W 110-93
PTS
Ayton 25
REB
Ayton 13
AST
Doncic 7
VS
@ Portland
L 132-116
PTS
Smart 25
REB
James 9
AST
James 8
VS
vs Charlotte
L 135-117
PTS
Doncic 39
REB
James 9
AST
James 6
VS
vs Atlanta
W 141-116
PTS
James 31
REB
Ayton 18
AST
Doncic 12
| Opponent | Result | Points | Rebounds | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| @ Denver | W 115-107 | Doncic 38 | Doncic 13 | Doncic 10 |
| vs Toronto | W 110-93 | Ayton 25 | Ayton 13 | Doncic 7 |
| @ Portland | L 132-116 | Smart 25 | James 9 | James 8 |
| vs Charlotte | L 135-117 | Doncic 39 | James 9 | James 6 |
| vs Atlanta | W 141-116 | James 31 | Ayton 18 | Doncic 12 |
Last 5 Games: LAC
Form:
LWWWW
VS
@ Chicago
L 138-110
PTS
Harden 24
REB
Zubac 11
AST
Harden 6
VS
@ Washington
W 110-106
PTS
Harden 36
REB
Zubac 12
AST
Harden 9
VS
@ Toronto
W 121-117 OT
PTS
Harden 31
REB
Zubac 14
AST
Harden 10
VS
vs Washington
W 119-105
PTS
Leonard 33
REB
Miller 10
AST
Harden 8
VS
vs Charlotte
W 117-109
PTS
Leonard 35
REB
Zubac 11
AST
Harden 10
| Opponent | Result | Points | Rebounds | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| @ Chicago | L 138-110 | Harden 24 | Zubac 11 | Harden 6 |
| @ Washington | W 110-106 | Harden 36 | Zubac 12 | Harden 9 |
| @ Toronto | W 121-117 OT | Harden 31 | Zubac 14 | Harden 10 |
| vs Washington | W 119-105 | Leonard 33 | Miller 10 | Harden 8 |
| vs Charlotte | W 117-109 | Leonard 35 | Zubac 11 | Harden 10 |
Written by Matt Dorsey
5 YEARS EXPERIENCE
Matt Dorsey turned his obsession with sports into a career five years ago, and he hasn't looked back. By combining a fan's passion with a veteran’s analytical eye, Matt provides reliable insights for the NBA, NHL, and NFL. He knows you’re looking for more than just a pick; you’re looking for a reason to trust the play. That’s why his work is always transparent, researched, and rooted in five years of proven results.
