After an offseason filled with change, the LA Clippers take the court tonight. Here’s what I hope to see from the team.
It’s finally time! The LA Clippers will take the court tonight against the Toronto Raptors in both team’s first preseason game. After the Clips had a big offseason, we will get some questions answered tonight. Here’s what I want to see.
The Offense
There is no longer a Point God to run the LA Clippers’ offense. Instead, it may be run by committee, whether it is through Patrick Beverley, Blake Griffin or Milos Teodosic. Each of these players is more than capable of running the offense, but there will be a departure from what fans have seen the past few years. This could also lead to a lot more of a run and gun style, which will play well into the team’s strengths.
The team also heavily relied on getting J.J. Redick going early by running him through a ton of screens to get open shots. With that luxury gone, it will be nice to see how Doc Rivers plans to start games. Does he focus on getting DJ early touches? Does he try and get Austin (who we assume is starting) going? We should get hints of Doc’s plans tonight, but don’t expect him to show his hand.
Next: LA Clippers' Training Camp Day One
The New Guys
There are a ton of new faces on the team. I want to see how they can come together with the few returning players the team has. Obviously, the guys acquired from the Rockets should be fine together. The team has made efforts to build early chemistry, so hopefully it will show on the court quickly. With the regular season just two and a half weeks away, the team needs to come together.
The one with the most hype might be Milos Teodosic, who will be seeing his first NBA action tonight. Milos has dazzled overseas and many think he will adapt quickly to the game. Tonight, we can finally get a glimpse of what he could be. It’s an exciting time in Clipper land.