NBA writer reveals James Harden, Kawhi Leonard trade odds amid Clippers' nose dive originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here. The Los Angeles Clippers ' 2025-26 campaign has been nightmare-ish from the outset.

The Houston Rockets haven't played a game for several days as the NBA Cup entered the elimination stages. Their first opponent after the long break will be the

With the Clippers sitting at 6-18 and facing uncertainty on multiple fronts, NBA observers are already wondering whether Los Angeles will be forced into major roster decisions sooner than expected.

This small break has also allowed the Clippers to get healthier. Head coach Ty Lue provided an injury update on Tuesday, giving positive news about Jordan Miller, Bogdan Bogdanovic, and Derrick Jones Jr. Tyronn Lue on the practice status of Bogdan Bogdanovic, Jordan Miller, and Derrick Jones Jr. pic.twitter.com/gFn2g5CVpQ

The Clippers are urged to take a bold swing as Bill Simmons floats a Hail Mary trade for Zion Williamson to revive L.A.’s fading season.

The quirky scheduling gap courtesy of the NBA Cup allowed the Houston Rockets a respite and provided an opportunity for early-season reflection. The Rockets host the Los Angeles Clippers on Thursday following a four-day hiatus since their 122-109 road loss to the Dallas Mavericks on Saturday.