Game Day Preview: Spurs vs. Clippers

TEAM LEADERS
	Points	Rebounds	Assists
SPURS	Manu Ginobili 21.9	Tim Duncan 9.7	Tony Parker 7.3
CLIPPERS	Eric Gordon 24.3	Blake Griffin 11.6	Eric Gordon 4.9

The San Antonio Spurs improved to 8-0 on the road for the first time with last night’s 118-98 victory over the Golden State Warriors.

Manu Ginobili had 27 points and Tim Duncan recorded his third regular season triple-double against the Warriors by scoring 15 points, grabbing 18 rebounds and dishing out a career high-tying 11 assists.

The Spurs (15-2) will be seeking their third victory over the Clippers this season, and 19th straight in their overall regular season matchup.

Chris Kaman will likely miss his 11th straight game, while Baron Davis remains day-to-day after sitting the last 10 games.

Without two of his top players, coach Vinny Del Negro has leaned heavily on Eric Gordon and rookie Blake Griffin on offense.

The Clippers’ (3-15) last win against the Spurs was a 98-85 victory at home on March 7, 2006.

KEYS TO THE GAME

Offense — The Spurs have enough firepower, entering this game, five Spurs players are averaging on double figures. Making their outside shots will also be key for the Spurs.

Defense — Limit Gordon and Griffin on offense, control the boards and close out of the Clippers’ perimeter shooters.

CLIPPERS:

Offense — Their offense starts with Gordon and Griffin and if Kaman and Davis don’t play, the young duo will again have to carry much of the offensive load for the Clippers.

Defense — Limit Ginobili, Parker, Jefferson and Hill’s dribble penetrations and contain Duncan on the inside.

INJURIES

Spurs — James Anderson – stress fracture (out)

Clippers — Chris Kaman – left ankle (day-to-day), Baron Davis – knee (day-to-day)

PREDICTION: The Spurs have won 18 straight against the Clippers but are playing the second night of a back-to-back. The Clippers is a young team with a ton of potential and will try their hardest to get another win.

It will be important for the Spurs to start the game strong to avoid an upset. This could be a “trap game”. However, I still believe that the Spurs will win this one and extend their new winning streak to three games.

Follow Robby Lim on Twitter @RobbyLim21