Harden will miss tomorrow's game due to injury! The Clippers refuse to trade their core trio, unwilling to let the Thunder benefit from it.

On December 18th Beijing time, the Clippers released their injury report for the game against the Thunder, confirming Harden’s absence due to a left calf bruise. Beal, Derrick Jones Jr., Niedbalski, and Paul are also sidelined. According to team reporters, Harden stayed behind and did not join the team in Oklahoma City, and his availability for the Lakers game is still unclear, with a possibility of missing the LA rivalry match as well.

Previously, Harden played through injury in the game against the Grizzlies, logging 31 minutes on the court, shooting 4 of 10, making 1 of 4 free throws, and recording 13 points, 3 rebounds, 6 assists, and 3 steals. The Clippers ultimately fell 103-121 to their opponents.

According to NBA reporter Mattur, although the Clippers are currently struggling, they have no plans to trade their key players at this time. Insider sources revealed that the Clippers have declined all trade inquiries involving Leonard, Harden, and Zubac. The main reason behind this is that the Clippers’ 2026 first-round draft pick is not in their possession but belongs to the Thunder. Breaking up the current roster for a rebuild now would only benefit the Thunder.

On the contrary, the Clippers’ management firmly believes the team still has a path forward, even if it is narrow. Sources told Mattur that the Clippers remain hopeful, believing that once forward Derrick Jones Jr. recovers from his knee injury and returns, the team has the capability to compete for a play-in tournament spot. Despite the bleak statistics, the team maintains this optimism.

Currently, the Clippers rank near the bottom of the league in both offensive and defensive efficiency, with their average points per game placing 27th overall. Leonard continues to deliver impressive performances when healthy; this season he earns $50 million and, in 16 games played, averages 25.0 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 3.1 assists, with highly efficient shooting numbers across the board.

Harden, earning $39.2 million this season, also performs efficiently, averaging 26.0 points and 8.1 assists across 25 games played. Zubac is one of the most consistent players on the team, averaging 16.2 points and 11.5 rebounds, with a shooting percentage exceeding 61%. However, despite these strong individual stats, the team’s win total has not reflected their players’ performances.