Clippers-Rockets Game 2 Preview: What We’ve Learned So Far
By Tom West
The Clippers’ chemistry just keeps getting better
May 2, 2015; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Clippers forward Glen Davis (0), forward Blake Griffin (32) and forward Matt Barnes (22) hug after defeating the San Antonio Spurs 111-109 in game seven of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
No Chris Paul? That should be a massive problem, right? Well, as the Clippers rallied together behind the triple double leadership of Blake Griffin, apparently it isn’t.
They shot just under 50 percent from the floor, which is a highly respectable mark when they were without their point guard the entire night. Furthermore, it says a lot about how well the offense works through Griffin’s passing from the top of the key when Paul isn’t around to run the show.
As the Clippers continue to go through adversity — after being considered the clear underdogs in round one against the defending champions, then losing their star point guard to begin the second round — they keep fighting on.
Everyone stepped up against the Rockets. Whether it was Matt Barnes adding 20 points with 4 steals and 2 blocks, or Blake playing like a 6’10” point guard, everyone did what they had to in order to win. Include their excellent ball movement, as they made 17 of their 22 second half field goals off assists, and it’s clear to see just how well this team is coming together when it matters most.
It’s only one game, but if they continue to stick together and Griffin keeps emerging as a strong leader, just think how good they can be against Houston when Paul makes his return.
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Next: Chris Paul Playing In Game 2 Is Up To The Medics, According To Doc Rivers