The New York Knicks' road trip out West won't get any easier, as after taking on the Suns in Phoenix on Friday, the Knicks' next test comes in Los Angeles against the Clippers on Saturday.
New York beat Los Angeles in James Harden's debut earlier this season, but since then, the Clippers have been on a tear, winning six straight games. Paul George played in five of those wins and scored in double-digits in all but one game (the one he left early due to injury). On the season, PG is averaging 22.6 points and 5.9 rebounds per game, shooting 44.5% from the field and 38.5% from three.
George is a player the Knicks inquired about over the offseason, but New York ultimately backed out of those trade talks. He didn't sign an extension this past summer and has a $48.8 million player option for 2024-25.
Whether LA has George or not, the Clippers will still have the rest advantage over the Knicks.
Paul George's status for tonight's game vs. Knicks
Paul George (groin) is listed as questionable. He sat out for the Clippers' win over the Warriors on Thursday, his first missed game of the season.
UDPATE: Paul George is available.
Kawhi Leonard's status for tonight's game vs. Knicks
Kawhi Leonard isn't listed on Los Angeles' injury report.
Projected starting lineups tonight
New York: Jalen Brunson, Donte DiVincenzo, RJ Barrett, Julius Randle, Jericho Sims
Los Angeles: James Harden, Terance Mann, Paul George (if he plays), Kawhi Leonard, Ivica Zubac
Knicks injury report
Josh Hart (knee) is probable. Mitchell Robinson (ankle) is out.
UPDATE: Josh Hart is available.
Clippers injury report
Paul George (groin) and Bones Hyland (knee) are questionable. Mason Plumlee (knee) and Moussa Diabate (hip) are out.
UPDATE: Paul George is available. Bones Hyland is out.
New York's next five opponents
The Knicks will stay in Los Angeles for one more game before returning to New York.
Dec. 18 at Lakers
Dec. 20 at Brooklyn
Dec. 23 vs. Milwaukee
Dec. 25 vs. Milwaukee
Dec. 27 at Oklahoma City