The Los Angeles Clippers have fallen back into the doldrums. They sit at 23-22, good for sixth in the Western Conference, but have gone 3-7 in their last 10 games. But they were without a big name for five of those contests, and the latest Paul George injury update reveals that the star wing is questionable tonight. The Clippers are in desperate need of some wins, but bettors must seriously consider whether Paul George is playing tonight before placing their wagers.
The Clippers will tip off against the Philadelphia 76ers at 10 p.m. ET. That means bettors and NBA DFS players will remain in the dark until late this evening. Those looking for an edge should heed this advice or check out the OddsShopper tools for sharp NBA bets. Bettors can also try out a one-week free trial of NBA Bet Pro to access cutting-edge betting projections that will update once the Clippers announce George’s official status.
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Paul George Injury Update – NBA Betting Impact
George hurt his hamstring early against the Denver Nuggets on Jan. 5. He is yet to return to the floor. The Clippers have gone 2-3 during his five-game absence despite some solid performances from Kawhi Leonard. The Clippers listed George as questionable before four of his five absences, but he managed to return to practice on Monday, so he is trending in the right direction.
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The Clippers have a tough matchup against the 76ers and will need all they can get to score a win. Philadelphia has a squeaky-clean injury report and should get plenty of production from Joel Embiid and James Harden. The Clippers will benefit from home-court advantage, but they have gone only 11-12 against the spread in the Crypto.com Arena. Fortunately, the 76ers have gone just 8-11 against the spread on the road.
Should Paul George sit, Nicolas Batum would remain in Tyronn Lue’s starting five. The injuries to George and Luke Kennard — and the regression from Reggie Jackson — will leave the Clippers shorthanded in the backcourt. Expect Kawhi Leonard to play a massive role if George remains out. Norman Powell will need to step up from off the bench as well.
76ers-Clippers NBA Betting & DFS Advice
George’s hamstring injury has kept him out for over a week, so he may not return at 100% strength. Even if he does come back tonight, the Clippers star may get tomorrow’s game against the San Antonio Spurs off. If the Clippers choose to hold George out of his one, Leonard could hit value on his massive $10,300 salary — but he certainly won’t if George plays. Few members of Los Angeles’ rotation offer much value unless George sits.
The Clippers are 1-point underdogs at both DraftKings and FanDuel. Pinnacle, a sharp sportsbook, also has this game at that number. Such a narrow spread suggests George should suit up tonight, but this number probably won’t budge should he get announced as a starter.
Bettors who think George sits should head to DraftKings to back the 76ers as a 1-point favorite. Getting the -1 before definitive news about George’s status comes out would likely score you a small amount of closing-line value (CLV). Those new to DraftKings can earn $200 in bonus bets with a $5 wager. Bettors in Ohio can score the same deal but via this link instead!
The legal gambling age is 21+ in most states. Gambling Problem? Call or text 1-800-GAMBLER.
