Magic vs. Celtics: East Standings Decided in NBA Season Finale Highlights
The LA Clippers lost control of their destiny for the eighth seed after Friday’s loss in Portland. Kawhi Leonard has been ruled out with a chronic ankle injury.
Los Angeles is likely to face the Golden State Warriors again on Wednesday. That game will determine who gets another shot at the eighth seed on Friday.
Leonard sidelined
The team listed Leonard out because of chronic ankle trouble. Other available Clippers are expected to play.
Streak on the line
The franchise is chasing its 15th straight winning season. Coach Tyronn Lue set a modest December target after a 6-21 start.
He asked the club to go 35-20 the rest of the schedule. That goal would put the team at .500 for the season.
The organization publicly framed the mission differently. Press statements emphasized keeping the winning-season streak alive.
A victory over Golden State would secure at least that objective. The Clippers have finished 42-40 twice during the streak.
In 2017-18 and 2021-22 the team missed the postseason. Those seasons underline how small margins can shape a campaign.
Playoff implications
Wednesday’s rematch with the Warriors will carry multiple stakes. It will affect the Clippers’ chance at the eighth seed on Friday.
Coaching staff says the playoff push will be handled after tonight. Meanwhile, the Magic vs. Celtics matchup decided East standings in the season finale.
Highlights from that game shifted playoff permutations for Eastern teams. Filmogaz.com will monitor updates on injuries and seeding.
