The Los Angeles Clippers (4-10) continue to navigate one of their most challenging seasons in recent memory, and veteran forward John Collins is determined to keep his teammates' spirits high during the adversity.

With Derrick Jones Jr. sidelined for at least six weeks following a sprained MCL suffered against Boston on November 16, Collins emphasized the importance of being there for the injured players.

"Just being there for him. Listening to him, just being a good teammate," Collins said about Jones Jr.'s unfortunate injury. "Him as well as Brad. They're missed...they bring great energy, great spirit to the locker room, so wishing those guys a speedy recovery...but they are missed and I want to see those guys get back as quickly as they can."

Law Murray ⛲️ (@LawMurrayTheNU) on X Asked John Collins about supporting Derrick Jones Jr. in wake of Jones' injury, and what Collins wants to bring for rest of road trip starting with Orlando

Collins Stepping Up When It Matters Most

The 28-year-old power forward has been thrust into a more prominent role following the injuries to both Jones Jr. and Bradley Beal, who is out for the season with a hip fracture.

Collins has started the team's last several games after beginning the season coming off the bench, and through 14 games this season, he's averaging 12.0 points and 4.6 rebounds per game while shooting 54.3 percent from the field and 38.5 percent from three-point range.

LA Clippers (@LAClippers) on X tuffff, John Collins 😤 count it!

His recent performances have shown flashes of his Utah Jazz form, as Collins posted 19 points on November 9 against Phoenix and has consistently provided energy and athleticism alongside center Ivica Zubac in the frontcourt.

With Jones Jr. sidelined, Collins' ability to finish around the rim and stretch the floor becomes even more important for head coach Tyronn Lue's rotation, and the Wake Forest product understands the responsibility that comes with increased playing time during this difficult stretch.

Navigating a Brutal Schedule

The Clippers face a challenging road ahead as they look to climb out of their 4-10 start, currently sitting 11th in the Western Conference standings.

Their upcoming schedule includes games against Orlando (9-5) on November 20, Charlotte (4-7) on November 22, and Cleveland (13-0) on November 23 before traveling to face the Lakers (8-4) on November 25.

Justin W (@LAClippersFilm) on X No more dribbling for John Collins

This seven-game road trip represents a make-or-break stretch for a Clippers team that has already lost six straight games earlier this month, and without Jones Jr.'s perimeter defense and Beal's scoring punch, players like Collins, James Harden, and Kawhi Leonard (when healthy) will need to shoulder more of the offensive burden.

Collins' leadership and positive attitude toward his injured teammates reflects the type of veteran presence the Clippers need as they battle through adversity, and his ability to step up both on the court and in the locker room will be tested over the next several weeks as LA tries to turn their season around before it's too late.