With a fresh start and adjusted roster, the Los Angeles Clippers will be banking on the contributions of Kawhi Leonard and James Harden, two premier superstars in the NBA. They will be expected to remain healthy, contribute consistently, and take a lead on and off the court to guide the franchise toward history.
Last season, the Clippers were sent home in the first round despite the efforts of multiple star talents. Leonard going down and the inconsistencies of former teammate Paul George played a prominent role in why head coach Tyronn Lue was unable to draw up a successful game plan. However, the front office made numerous additions that will help Lue develop a championship scheme under Intuit Dome.
Key Additions:
Jones Jr. enters the Clippers starting rotation as the replacement for Paul George. Sure, he may not be able to match what George provided offensively, but Jones Jr. will show up every night and dominate the defensive end with energy and hustle.
Having an athletic guard like Porter Jr. off the bench will benefit the Clippers more than fans anticipate. He will not be a second-option like he once was in Houston, but the former USC Trojan can score the ball effectively and play-make with eyes all over the court.
Dunn provides the Clippers with an elite defensive presence as a guard, something they have been missing since Patrick Beverley. Instead of focusing on scoring points, Dunn strives to make an impact and win games. This is fitting for a team looking to develop an identity this season.
Key Losses:
G/F Paul George
Losing a star like George will certainly hurt, especially in crunch time. He is one of the few players around the league who consistently delivered in the clutch. George will be missed tremendously, but there is optimism around the Clippers’ ability to thrive without the nine-time all-star.
Westbrook was one of the more unique players in franchise history. He was a leader on and off the court and accepted whatever role he was given in hopes of winning a title. Although the Clippers failed to get the job done, Westbrook’s contributions will forever be remembered.
Starting lineup: PG James Harden, SG Terance Mann, SF Jones Jr., PF Kawhi Leonard (Injured), C Ivica Zubac
Bench: Norman Powell, Dunn, Porter Jr., Nicolas Batum, Mo Bamba, Amir Coffey, Bones Hyland
Reserves: Cam Christie, Kai Jones, Kobe Brown, Jordan Miller (TW), Trentyn Flowers (TW)
Leonard may be injured to begin the season as he underwent knee surgery during the summer. If he is absent, Lue could elevate Batum into the starting lineup to fill a void at power forward.
Season Outlook:
The LA Clippers will likely finish as the sixth seed or below, but that does not diminish their chances to compete in the postseason. They have two superstars to depend on and countless role players who will dominate their assignments. There is a strong possibility the Clippers will prove the world wrong and contend for a championship if they avoid injury.
Projected Finish:
Record: 44-38
Projected Finish: Seventh in the Western Conference
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