Clippers Dominate Rockets 128-95: The 5 Things We Learned

The Clippers’ bench have found a rhythm at the perfect time

May 10, 2015; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Clippers guard Jamal Crawford (11) reacts after a 3-point basket against the Houston Rockets in game three of the second round of the NBA Playoffs. at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Heading into the playoffs against the defending champion San Antonio Spurs, the Clippers were doubted due to the weakness of their second unit. With 30 points per game (per HoopsStats), their second unit ranked 23rd this season in bench scoring, and more than half of that (15.8 to be exact) came from Jamal Crawford.

With the likes of Rivers and Crawford having some big games between them, though, and the dominance of the Clippers’ starters, the bench have been able to earn more playing time as a result of this team’s overall strength.

It’s a rare sight when the Clippers go more than nine men deep in a game, but in game four they were able to use every player on the roster, as the Rockets struggled to put up a fight.

Spencer Hawes made both his three point attempts and finished with 8 points, Crawford added 13, Rivers added 12, and even Lester Hudson came in to play five minutes and grab a quick steal and 4 points.

The Clippers’ bench may still rely on the shooting of Crawford and the sudden improvement of Rivers, but with the way L.A.’s stars are performing, their bench has been able to deliver in ways that gives them the improved depth they need to contend deep into the playoffs.

Next: Game 4 Recap: Clippers Rout Broken Rockets To Take 3-1 Series Lead