Inside the Clippers Lineup: Who’s Starting, Who’s Fighting for Minutes?
As the 2025–26 season approaches, the Los Angeles Clippers are shaping what could be one of their deepest and most veteran-heavy rosters. The projected starting five consists of James Harden at point guard, Bradley Beal at shooting guard, Kawhi Leonard at small forward, John Collins at power forward, and Ivica Zubac anchoring the middle. Behind them are several players ready to fight for minutes, including Chris Paul, Bogdan Bogdanović, and Derrick Jones Jr. With so much experience on the roster, how head coach Tyronn Lue manages playing time and chemistry will be one of the team’s most compelling storylines.
The starting group brings a strong mix of playmaking, scoring, and defensive skill. Harden will continue to orchestrate the offense, while Beal provides another elite perimeter threat who can create his own shot. Leonard remains the cornerstone of the team’s defense and overall identity, with Collins adding energy and versatility to the frontcourt. Zubac’s presence inside gives the Clippers a consistent rebounder and rim protector, rounding out a balanced lineup that, on paper, can compete with any team in the league. The key question will be whether this group can stay healthy and cohesive through an 82-game season.
Due to the team’s age and injury history, load management is likely to play a significant role in their approach. The Clippers may need to rest their stars strategically to keep them fresh for the postseason, meaning the bench will have to step up. That’s where Chris Paul becomes especially valuable. Returning to the Clippers for what could be his final run, Paul brings veteran leadership and stability to the second unit. His ability to control pace and find open teammates will make him a crucial piece off the bench, especially when Harden sits.
Beyond Paul, Bogdan Bogdanović and Derrick Jones Jr. are set to compete for consistent minutes on the wing. Bogdanović’s shooting will be vital for spacing lineups featuring multiple ball-dominant stars, while Jones brings athleticism and defensive versatility that can energize the team in transition. In the frontcourt, Brook Lopez adds size and rim protection as Zubac’s backup, while also stretching the floor with his shooting. Rounding out the depth, Kris Dunn and Kobe Brown will look to carve out minor roles with defense and hustle. With so much talent and experience, the Clippers’ biggest challenge might not be who starts, but who finishes games. Ty Lue has options at every position, and this year’s internal battles for playing time could define whether Los Angeles finally turns its deep roster into resounding playoff success.
