The Battle of Los Angeles resumed on February 20, 2026, with the Los Angeles Lakers hosting the Los Angeles Clippers at Crypto.com Arena in a fierce Western Conference showdown. Coming off the All-Star break, both teams entered this rivalry game with different levels of pressure. The Lakers were fighting for a strong playoff spot, while the Clippers were looking to strengthen their play-in chances.
On paper, the Lakers looked like the stronger team with a better record, home field advantage, and a star-studded lineup led by Luka Doncic and LeBron James. However, rivalry matches between these two teams are often unpredictable. The Clippers have been on a roll lately, relying heavily on Kawhi Leonard’s leadership and scoring ability.
This matchup featured playoff intensity, star power, and major implications for the Western Conference race. Here you’ll find a complete analysis of the latest standings, recent form, injuries, player stats, head-to-head stats, best picks, and more.
Match details
| detail | information |
|---|---|
| match | Los Angeles Clippers vs Los Angeles Lakers |
| date | February 20, 2026 |
| time | 10:00 PM ET (8:30 AM ET, February 21) |
| venue | Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles |
| live broadcast | ESPN, Spectrum Sportsnet, FDSSC, NBA League Pass |
Latest standings
| team | record | conference position | recent forms |
|---|---|---|---|
| los angeles lakers | 33–22 | fifth west | L1 |
| LA Clippers | 28–28 | 9th west | W3 |
The Clippers’ strong run boosted their play-in hopes, while the Lakers remained in the top half of the conference but suffered a setback after this game.
Recent form and team performance
The Lakers entered the game with momentum after their dominant victory over Dallas, scoring 124 points and showing a strong offensive rhythm. They have been one of the more efficient offensive teams this season, averaging 116.0 points per game and shooting 50 percent from the field.
Meanwhile, the Clippers needed a narrow win over Houston and were playing on the second night of a back-to-back. Despite their problems with the squad, their defense is solid; 112.4 points per gameand their recent three-game winning streak showed an improvement in form.
Direct Showdown (Season Series)
| category | record |
|---|---|
| season series | 2-2 |
| last match | Clippers won (February 20, 2026) |
| recent trends | Clippers have won 3 of their last 4 games |
The rivalry has been fierce this season, with the Clippers showing off strong performances in key matchups.
Reporting an injury
los angeles lakers
| player | situation |
|---|---|
| Deandre Ayton | Daily life (knee) |
| lebron james | Yes (manages knee pain) |
| Luka Doncic | available |
| austin reeves | available |
LA Clippers
| player | situation |
|---|---|
| bradley beer | season out |
| Darius Garland | Out (toe) |
| Norman Powell | Yes (determined before game time) |
| Kawhi Leonard | active |
While the Clippers lack key backcourt depth, the Lakers came out with their main stars.
Comparison of team statistics (2025-26)
| status | lakers | clippers |
|---|---|---|
| points per game | 116.0 | 112.0 |
| Points allowed | 116.0 | 112.4 |
| field goal% | 50.0% | 47.8% |
| Total average points | – | 228.0 |
The Lakers have the offensive edge, while the Clippers rely more on defense and half-court execution.
Key players to watch
los angeles lakers
- Luka Doncic – 32.8 PPG, 7.8 RPG, 8.6 APG
- lebron james – 22+ PPG with leadership and playmaking.
- austin reeves – PPG this season is 25.4
- Deandre Ayton – Strong inside presence and rebounding
LA Clippers
- Kawhi Leonard – 27.8 PPG, team’s main scorer and clutch performer
- Benedict Mathurin – Secondary scoring option
- john collins – Efficient inside scoring
- Chris Dunn – Defensive energy and playmaking
Kawhi Leonard remained the Clippers’ most reliable player and was expected to be a big scorer.
Match analysis
This game showed a classic contrast of styles. The Lakers like to play a fast-paced, offensive game, while the Clippers are used to slowing down the tempo and relying on their defense.
The Lakers’ biggest advantage was their offensive depth and star power. But the Clippers’ defense and Leonard’s ability to control the game kept them competitive. Playing back-to-back games could have affected the Clippers late in the game, but their recent form and focus on defense helped them stay.
Rebounding and perimeter defense were key areas, and the Clippers’ ability to limit easy scoring opportunities proved to be the difference.
Betting odds and market trends
| market | odds |
|---|---|
| spread | Lakers -6.5 to -8 |
| money line | Lakers -280 to -320 |
| over/under | 224.5 – 226.5 |
Trends you should know about
- The Lakers have outscored the total in more than half of their games.
- Clippers are strong ATS as underdogs by 8+ points
- The total points average (228) favors the over slightly.
Clippers vs. Lakers Best Picks
Main predictions: Clippers keep game close/upset
Score prediction: Clippers 116 – Lakers 113
best pick
- Clippers +7 or +8
- Total 226.5 points or more
- Kawhi Leonard 27.5 points or more
player props
- LeBron James 20.5 points or more
- Luka Doncic 29.5 points or more
This LA battle showed once again why rivalry matches are never so easily predicted. The Lakers had a stronger record and offense, but the Clippers’ defensive discipline and Kawhi Leonard’s leadership made the difference.
The Clippers have proven they can compete against their city rivals, winning three of their last four meetings. The win raised expectations for the Lakers to make the play-in, but they will look to bounce back as the Western Conference playoff race heats up.
Disclaimer:
This article is for informational and entertainment purposes only. All predictions, odds and betting choices are based on analysis and opinion and do not guarantee results. Sports betting involves risks and readers must gamble responsibly and within their legal jurisdiction. We do not promote or encourage irresponsible gambling.