LA Clippers at OKC Thunder: Two teams struggling
The LA Clippers and Oklahoma City Thunder face off tonight as both look to bounce back from recent struggles.
The LA Clippers and the OKC Thunder as organizations both had very big off-season moves this summer. The Clippers lost a superstar player, while the Thunder added two superstars to their roster. However, dealing with new faces on each squad has them struggling to find any rhythm.
Slump City
The Clippers have lost three straight, as well as five of their last six, while the Thunder have lost four straight. They are still trying to find chemistry with their group of superstars. Obviously, OKC has a talented group, but have yet to get all the pieces to work together. On top of the pressure and expectations from the media, the additions of Paul George and Carmelo Anthony are actually the reason for a regression in the cohesiveness of this team. At least for now, this team is in a bit of a slump, looking to get over some humiliating losses.
The Clippers are giving up more than 112 points per game during their slump. OKC is loaded with talent and is expected to contend with Golden State, yet they are still win-less against the Western Conference after blowing a small lead in Denver last night.
Right now, both teams are looking to turn things around. Although the Clippers are banged up, look for them to keep the game close. Carmelo has brought his losing ways to Oklahoma City and for now, their recent struggles and big ego will be too much coming off a tough loss in the high altitude of Denver last night.
Injured Clips
The Clippers are in a slump themselves, not even staying healthy so early on this season. After starting off the season on a good foot winning their first four, they are now 5-5. Patrick Beverley, Danilo Gallinari and Milos Teodosic are all out tonight with injuries.
Austin Rivers: “I’m gonna play. There’s a difference between pain and discomfort. If it’s discomfort, you can play with that.” https://t.co/0EXTY4NsqY
— Erik Horne (@ErikkHorne) November 10, 2017
Meanwhile, Austin Rivers, despite a mid right ankle sprain suffered in practice, will still play tonight, but he is not 100%.
The Clippers are rested and if they simply play harder and get the 50/50 balls and hustle tonight, the Thunder will continue to be win-less against the Western conference.