The Los Angeles Clippers host the Los Angeles Lakers Saturday night in the long-awaited battle of Staples Center. The Clippers have won their last four home games while the Lakers have won their last five games overall. Here is a look at the probable starting lineups, with news and notes for each player.
Lakers (9-4)
Point Guard - Derek Fisher: Had 10 assists Friday for the first time since January 11, 2009, a span of three years.
Shooting Guard - Kobe Bryant: Is only 322 points shy of Shaquille O`Neal for fifth place on the NBA all-time scoring list.
Small Forward - Matt Barnes: Shooting 61.5% and averaging 12.2 points over last five games.
Power Forward - Pau Gasol: Five straight double-doubles.
Center - Andrew Bynum: Shooting just 45.3% in last five games.
Clippers (5-3)
Point Guard - Chris Paul: Recorded his 116th game of 20 or more points and 10 or more assists on Wednesday, most in the NBA during the last seven seasons.
Shooting Guard - Chauncey Billups: Had the audacity to miss one free throw in each of the last two games; has made 37 of 39 free throws this season, fifth in the NBA at 94.9%.
Small Forward - Caron Butler: Has scored exactly 20 points in three straight games
Power Forward - Blake Griffin: His 22 dunks are tied with Dwight Howard for second in NBA, behind only JaVale McGee's 23.
Center - DeAndre Jordan: Leading the NBA with 3.38 blocks per game this season, including six on Wednesday night against Miami.
For more news and information on the local NBA teams, be sure to read Clips Nation and Silver Screen and Roll.