As the L.A. Clippers continue their pursuit of a high playoff seed in the final month of the NBA season, they'll begin to monitor some of their guys' minutes. The Clippers on the second half of a back-to-back set, and they'll be without forward Danilo Gallinari for their matchup against the Portland Trail Blazers. Starting in his place will be recently-acquired JaMychal Green.
Gallinari played 27 minutes on Monday night against the Boston Celtics, finishing with 25 points, five rebounds, and two assists on 9-of-12 shooting from the field and 4-of-5 from beyond the arc.
Green will make his first start with his new team since being acquired at the trade deadline in a deal sending Avery Bradley to the Memphis Grizzlies. Green has been averaging 7.9 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 1.3 three-pointers on 45.5 percent shooting from the field and 37.5 percent shooting from beyond the arc.
The Clippers came into the season with many expecting them to be a lottery team, but they've defied the odds and turned into a playoff-bound team.
While L.A. is still battling for a playoff spot, the health of their key players will be more important than anything. Gallinari has had a very healthy season, but has been plagued by injuries throughout his career. Keeping him in top shape and not overworking him as the postseason nears is crucial.
Gallinari is in the midst of one of the best seasons of his career, averaging 19.3 points, 5.9 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 2.4 three-pointers per game on 45.7 percent shooting from the field and 43.5 percent shooting from beyond the arc. The day off will give Gallinari a full three days off until the Clippers next game, when they host the visiting Chicago Bulls.
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