Houston Rockets – Los Angeles Clippers: KD vs Kawhi
A straight-up Western Conference showdown between the Rockets and Clippers — two teams headed in different directions but chasing similar things. Houston’s gunning for the title. L.A., after the recent trades, probably isn’t expecting much, but they’ve got no reason to lie down. Expect a competitive game.
Houston Rockets: back it up at home 
Despite a few tricky outings lately, the Rockets have won 4 of their last 6 — enough to keep pace with the West’s big boys and still dream about third, maybe even second, by season’s end. The 112-106 win over the Thunder three days ago should get Ime Udoka’s team rolling again.
For the first game of this two-game set at the Toyota Center, Houston welcomes Amen Thompson back into the starting five — he missed the last game sick — and otherwise fields as full a roster as possible given season-ending injuries to Steven Adams and Fred VanVleet. The main scouting focus tonight will be stopping Kawhi Leonard, who’s enjoying one of his best offensive seasons.
INJURY REPORT : Steven Adams (OUT)
Los Angeles Clippers: all in on Kawhi 
The Clippers’ season turned on its head after the trade deadline, with moves involving James Harden and Ivica Zubac. What might once have been hopes of upsetting the playoffs picture now looks like damage control: win as many games as you can and don’t hand the Thunder a lottery pick as part of the Paul George – Shai Gilgeous-Alexander deal.
Recently Ty Lue’s team did the job against the Kings (114-111) and followed up with a statement road win over the Wolves (115-96). Kawhi’s still showing up — 41 points on 14/30 against Minnesota — and the group defense has been top-tier against one of the league’s best attacks. He’ll need another night like that to beat the Rockets.
INJURY REPORT : Darius Garland (OUT)
NBA Prediction Houston Rockets vs Los Angeles Clippers
Clippers to avoid defeat — or lose by 8 points or fewer
On paper L.A.’s roster looks weaker, but they’ve shown they can’t be written off. As long as Kawhi’s on the floor, this team’s dangerous. The Rockets are clear favourites, no question, but don’t be surprised if L.A. stays in touch for most of the game.
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