Clippers-Hornets in Shanghai: 5 key things to look out for
By Tom West
Oct 4, 2015; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Toronto Raptors guard Norman Powell (24) shoots the ball as Los Angeles Clippers guard Austin River (25) defends during the fourth quarter at Rogers Arena. The Raptors won 94-73. Mandatory Credit: Anne-Marie Sorvin-USA TODAY Sports
Can the new bench start cutting down on turnovers?
In addition to the shooting struggles we’ve seen from the Clippers’ new bench so far, the general sloppy play and turnovers is something they need to start turning around. As has been expressed on so many occasions, they obviously need time to learn how each other play, understand different offensive sets, and grow accustomed to one another. That much can’t be disputed.
Yet, that doesn’t hide the fact that until they reduce their amount of turnovers, it’s going to be incredibly difficult for Doc to get any kind of consistent output from his bench.
Over the first three games of the preseason, the second unit have shot just 34.1 percent while making 25 percent of their three point attempts. They’ve also been in a constant struggle to take care of the ball, and rank 6th among NBA teams in the preseason for most turnovers with 10.4 per game. Although, after cutting down to a slightly less generous nine turnovers in their last game, it has to be made clear that their 18 turnovers against the Raptors has boosted that statistic.
Numbers of turnovers aside, though, the second unit have struggled to stay in control at all when they take over for the Clippers. As has already been discussed in this slideshow, many issues stem from the Stephenson-Crawford partnership. It doesn’t end there, though. They’re far from being the entire bench — even though that was the case with Jamal last season — and as soon as this entire unit starts finding some kind of offensive rhythm, they can address a crucial flaw that can kill any team in an instant: turnovers.
Ultimately, the bench’s slowly growing chemistry and possession issues have resulted to them acquiring a preseason +/- of -12.9, which ranks a dismal 29th in the league. With the return of Paul, though, maybe some additional leadership on the court can help turn things around.
Next: A triple double for Griffin?