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LA Clippers (8-21) at Portland (12-18)
- When: Dec 26 2025, 10:00 PM
- Where: Moda Center, Portland, OR, USA
- TV: Prime Video
LA Clippers vs Portland Preview & Prediction
Spread: LA Clippers -1.5
Moneyline: LA Clippers (-125)
Total: 226.5
Los Angeles Clippers Betting Breakdown
The Clippers finally look alive, and it starts with Kawhi Leonard reminding everyone what elite basketball looks like. Los Angeles enters Portland riding momentum, something that has been rare this season, but the recent stretch has been impossible to ignore. Leonard has been on a scoring tear, carrying the offense efficiently and confidently, while the Clippers have responded with their best rhythm of the year.
Despite sitting near the bottom of the Western Conference standings, this team believes its record does not reflect its true level. Leonard has been ruthless from the field, scoring at will from all three levels and punishing mismatches. James Harden has also stepped up as a secondary scorer and facilitator, providing stability late in games.
The Clippers are still learning how to close consistently, but this recent stretch shows signs of a team finding its identity. With a long homestand looming after this road trip, this matchup feels like a tone setter. Los Angeles has also dominated this series historically, winning most recent meetings by controlling pace and forcing Portland into tough shots.
Clippers Player Prop Pick: Kawhi Leonard over 27.5 points – His current form and usage make him the focal point again, especially against a defense that struggles containing elite wings.
Portland Trail Blazers Betting Breakdown
Portland is competitive but frustratingly close. The Trail Blazers have shown heart, rallying from large deficits in recent games, yet finishing has been an issue. Late game execution, free throws, and defensive stops have consistently slipped away when the margin tightens.
Deni Avdija has emerged as the offensive engine, attacking the rim aggressively and providing scoring punch almost every night. His confidence is clear, and Portland continues to fight even when trailing. The problem is that moral victories do not count in the standings.
Defensively, Portland struggles against disciplined half court teams, especially those with multiple shot creators. Allowing Leonard and Harden space late is a dangerous formula. Still, playing at home gives the Blazers a chance to hang around if they can dictate tempo and keep the Clippers out of transition.
Trail Blazers Player Prop Pick: Deni Avdija over 25.5 points – His volume and consistency make him Portland’s most reliable scoring option in tight games.
NBA Final Score & Expert Prediction
This game sets up as a competitive, offense driven matchup with plenty of shot making. The Clippers enter hotter, more confident, and far more experienced in close games. Portland will battle, but Los Angeles has the edge late with Leonard controlling the final minutes.
Final Score: Clippers 115, Trail Blazers 110
Lean: LA Clippers -1.5
Total: Under 226.5
- NBA Basketball Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
