Celtics vs. Clippers: Injury Returns & Streaks Collide in High-Stakes NBA Showdown
The Los Angeles Clippers, riding a wave of momentum with six straight wins, face their toughest test yet as the Boston Celtics come to town. The narrative, however, has shifted dramatically from their last meeting. This isn’t just a rematch of a November nail-biter; it’s a clash defined by who is returning to the court and the desperate playoff positioning at stake for both franchises.
With key players back from injury and trade rumors swirling in the background, Saturday night’s game at Crypto.com Arena is poised to be a defining moment in the early 2026 season. Can the Clippers’ resurgence continue against the Eastern Conference power, or will the Celtics snap their streak and solidify their own standing?
The Last Meeting: A Celtics Escape
Related Video: LIVE: BOSTON CELTICS vs LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS | NBA | PLAY BY PLAY | SCOREBOARD
Looking back provides crucial context. When these teams met on November 17, 2025, the Boston Celtics narrowly escaped with a 121-118 victory. The game was a tale of two halves, with Boston building a massive lead only to withstand a furious Clippers comeback.
“The Celtics defeated the LA Clippers, 121-118. The Clippers trailed by as many as 24 but Boston held on at the end to improve to 7-7,” as reported in the game highlights.
That result feels like a lifetime ago, with both teams’ seasons and health situations evolving significantly since that night.
Injury Report: Major Returns Reshape the Matchup
The biggest story heading into this game is the return of key personnel. The availability reports have cleared, setting the stage for a near-full-strength battle.
Los Angeles Clippers
The Clippers receive a monumental boost with the return of starting center Ivica Zubac. After missing five games with a Grade 2 ankle sprain, Zubac is off the injury report and expected to play, albeit likely on a minutes restriction. His presence in the paint (averaging 15.6 points and 11.1 rebounds) is critical against Boston’s size.
More importantly, superstar Kawhi Leonard is available and has been the engine of the Clippers’ six-game win streak, looking like his All-NBA self.
Boston Celtics
The Celtics will be without their talisman, Jayson Tatum, who remains out with an Achilles injury. This places an even heavier burden on Jaylen Brown, who is in the midst of a career-best season. Otherwise, Boston is at full strength.
| Team | Player | Status | Injury | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LA Clippers | Ivica Zubac | AVAILABLE | Ankle Sprain | Starter returns; key for rebounding & interior defense. |
| Kawhi Leonard | AVAILABLE | — | Leading the win streak, averaging 28.5 PPG. | |
| Boston Celtics | Jayson Tatum | OUT | Achilles | Star forward sidelined; major offensive absence. |
| Boston Celtics | Jaylen Brown | AVAILABLE | — | Must carry scoring load (29.5 PPG avg). |
Season Context & The Streak
The Clippers’ six-game winning streak has been a lifeline, pulling them out of the Western Conference cellar to a 12-21 record. All six victories have come by double-digits, signaling a team finding its rhythm. In contrast, the Celtics sit at a strong 21-12, looking to cement their position among the East’s elite. This game concludes a challenging five-game road trip for Boston, making a victory even more desirable.
Trade Rumors Linger in the Background
Beyond the court, both teams are subjects of persistent trade speculation. For the Clippers, their disappointing start to 2025-26 has fueled rumors of a potential desperate move, with names like Anfernee Simons being floated. Meanwhile, Celtics discussions have involved potential guard swaps to add scoring punch, though insiders have downplayed specific rumors. This backdrop adds a layer of front-office intrigue to the on-court drama.
What to Watch For
With the lineups set, several key battles will decide this game:
- Jaylen Brown vs. Kawhi Leonard: The premier wing matchup. Brown’s offensive explosion versus Leonard’s two-way dominance and clutch play.
- The Zubac Effect: How many minutes can the returning center give, and can he disrupt Boston’s interior offense immediately?
- Supporting Cast: With Tatum out, which Celtic role players will step up? For the Clippers, can others sustain their high level of play during this streak?
Broadcast Information
| Event | Date | Time (Local LA / EST) | Broadcast Channel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boston Celtics @ LA Clippers | Saturday, January 3, 2026 | 7:30 PM PT / 10:30 PM ET | NBA TV |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kawhi Leonard playing against the Celtics on January 3?
Yes, Kawhi Leonard is available and expected to start for the Los Angeles Clippers. He has been a central figure in their recent six-game winning streak.
Did the Celtics and Clippers already play this season?
Yes. The Boston Celtics defeated the LA Clippers 121-118 in their first meeting on November 17, 2025. The Clippers mounted a large comeback from 24 points down but fell short.
What is the significance of Ivica Zubac returning for this game?
Zubac’s return from a sprained ankle is a major boost for the Clippers’ defense and rebounding. He averages a double-double (15.6 points, 11.1 rebounds) and provides essential size to counter Boston’s frontcourt, though he may be on a minutes restriction.
Why is Jayson Tatum not playing for the Celtics?
Celtics star Jayson Tatum is listed out for this game due to an Achilles injury. His absence is a significant blow to Boston’s offensive firepower and places more responsibility on Jaylen Brown and the supporting cast.