The Los Angeles Clippers face a major test Wednesday night, hosting the Western Conference-leading Oklahoma City Thunder. However, their quest for a statement victory may be hampered by a significant absence on the injury report.

Star guard Darius Garland has been ruled out for the contest due to left toe injury management, a precautionary move on the second night of a back-to-back. Garland's playmaking and scoring will be missed against a formidable Thunder defense.

His absence creates an opportunity for others to step up. Look for Kris Dunn, Kobe Sanders, and Jordan Miller to see increased minutes in the backcourt, while the offensive burden will fall even more heavily on the shoulders of Kawhi Leonard.

The Clippers' frontcourt depth is also being tested. Isaiah Jackson will miss his sixth consecutive game with a right ankle sprain, likely keeping John Collins in a prominent bench role behind starter Brook Lopez.

With Bradley Beal and Yanic Konan Niederhauser already ruled out for the season, the Clippers will need a collective effort to overcome a talented Thunder squad. Tune in tonight at 10:00 p.m. ET to see if the shorthanded Clippers can defend their home court in this crucial Western Conference clash.