Warriors Catch Break as Clippers Star Ruled Out

The Los Angeles Clippers ruled out James Harden (shoulder) for Monday's game against the Golden State Warriors.

Also missing the game for the Clippers are Bogdan Bogdanovic (hamstring) and Derrick Jones Jr. (long-term knee injury).

The Warriors have a clean bill of health. Their only absence is Seth Curry (sciatica).

With Harden Out, Warriors Should Throw Kitchen Sink at Kawhi

Kawhi Leonard has been on a heater.

In his last seven games, he's averaging 36.6 points per game, and the Clippers are 6-1 in that stretch.

Normally the Warriors might be hesitant to double Leonard, but on Monday, that should be a viable strategy.

The Clippers don't have much firepower outside of Leonard. John Collins, Brook Lopez, Nic Batum and Kris Dunn can make spot-up threes, but none are elite marksmen.

Dubs Must Have Answer for Zubac

Ivica Zubac made his return from a five-game absence on Saturday, scoring just four points in 21 minutes.

Don't let that fool you. Outside of Leonard, Zubac is Golden State's biggest threat.

In his last 10 games against the Warriors, Zubac is averaging 15.6 points and 12.9 rebounds. The Clippers have won eight of those games.

Slowing him down will be handful for Warriors big men Quinten Post, Draymond Green, Trayce Jackson-Davis and Al Horford.