LA Clippers Roundtable: What has been most impressive so far?

Blake Griffin initiating the offense – By Leonard Saldana

I have been impressed with Blake Griffin initiating the offense. At least, that was before he was forced to have arthroscopic surgery on his right knee on Tuesday. But, regardless, this adjustment has helped and we need to positive at Christmas time. So, let’s continue.

It’s the change of pace where Blake pushes the ball up in transition or by setting up the half court offense. Blake is known around the league for his passing which is warranted, but his basketball IQ is extremely high as well. He can hit J.J. Redick outside or Luc slashing to the basket, hit DeAndre Jordan for the lob or kick it back to CP3 at the top of the key.

If not, Blake can score himself. Setting up with low post positioning early on in possessions gives his teammates a target to pass to when moving the ball up court as well, allowing him to turn quickly for a layup.

Yet, when setting up the offense, he more often than not makes the right pass or will pass up a good shot for a great shot. That is not saying he should bring up the ball every possession, but it helps Paul take a break and gets him open looks off the ball if the defense collapses on Blake.

It’s a different look for the offense and is needed when teams key in on Paul to get the ball out of his hands. The Clippers need to utilize that approach in the playoffs come crunch time.