The LA Clippers took home their first preseason win on Tuesday with a victory over the Brooklyn Nets. The game took place at the new home of the Clippers' G League affiliate in San Diego, at the Frontwave Arena.
A crowd full of Clippers fans gathered to see their favorite team compete. As Ty Lue recently pointed out, this team has a long way to go, but even small victories like Tuesday's are something to write home about when you are working with a roster loaded with new players like this one.
Several of LA's new guys played well in the win, with it seeming like certain roles are being figured out for key players. There were multiple solid performances in this one, but we are focusing in on two of the best, and one of the worst here.
Stud: James Harden
For a second game in a row, James Harden looked like his old self. Just like the point guard boldly declared, he is looking like he is in his best shape since the Houston Rockets days. Harden was getting downhill with ease in this one while showcasing that vintage burst.
James finished with 14 points on an efficient 6-for-9 shooting. The six turnovers were a bit concerning, but they do not overshadow his renewed athleticism and hot shooting.
Dud: Nic Batum
Finishing the game a team-worst -6 in plus/minus, Nic Batum had a difficult time in his 10 minutes of playing time. He shot 0-for-4, which included missing all three of his three-point attempts.
Nic figures to be one of the Clippers' most important bench players this season, providing needed depth on the wing. If he continues to put up performances like this one, perhaps he would be better just sitting on the bench. Thankfully, he is not likely to struggle this badly again.
Stud: Kai Jones
One of the young players Clippers fans have been most excited about is Kai Jones, and he showed why once again on Tuesday. Kai finished tied for the team's second-leading scorer on the night, putting up 13 points and making six of his eight shots.
In the second half, he showed his insane athletic ability and tried to pull off a crazy poster dunk. Jones is primed to be a human highlight reel in Los Angeles this season, and he continues to show promising flashes.