THE HARD PART
March 4 @ Los Angeles Lakers
With the mighty LeBron James taking over Hollywood, it likely ceases the six year domination the Clippers have boasted in Los Angeles. While leaders Beverley and Lou Williams have suggested otherwise, the prospect of confronting The King in his prime could prove to be strenuous.
However dissimilar to claims made by experts, the gulf between the Clippers and their counterpart won’t be a sizeable one. A higher level coach and first class defensive potential will make the Clippers a resilient opposition. With the Lakers reinforcing in all domains, they seem the better team on paper. However, past experiences amidst teammates could upset their chemistry at first. But upon acclimating with one another, they would probably prevail in this contest.
PREDICTION: LOSS
March 8 vs Oklahoma City Thunder
The recoup of two way wing Paul George together with the trade for Dennis Schroder gears them for the impending season. The return of Andre Roberson from a season ending injury makes them a prominent defensive team. Sam Presti had exhibited his quality as a canny general manager yet again by swapping the ball dominant, defensive liability in Carmelo Anthony with a young, proficient scorer in Schroder who could prove to be an invaluable asset off the bench.
Pairing a couple of illustrious two-way stars with fitting role-players brands them as a troublesome opposition. Possessing necessary depth to challenge the cream of the crop, the Clippers will face successive losses following this game.
PREDICTION: LOSS
March 11 vs Boston Celtics
The preceding encounter between the franchises saw Rivers pull off a coaching masterclass, unveiling the Celtics’ frailty in the paint by utilizing DeAndre Jordan’s prowess in that domain.
However, the loss of the defensive big man accompanied by the return of versatile forward, Gordon Hayward from a dreadful injury diminishes the likelihood of an upset.
Moreover, a coup for Robert Williams in the draft and the re-capture of Marcus Smart by means of the free agency enhances the depth in their roster. With the Celtics establishing themselves as championship contenders, they comprise ample talent to overcome the Clippers. While the strong-willed Clippers could agitate the Celtics, excepting injury complications, Boston will be irrefutable favorites entering this game.
PREDICTION: LOSS
March 12 vs Portland Trail Blazers
The trade of prospective franchise legend Blake Griffin implied that the Clippers were bested by the Portland Trail Blazers in a regular season series since 2013-14. However the two franchises appear to have advanced in contrasting paths, with the Clippers sacrificing quality for depth unlike the Trail Blazers who seem resolute in constructing their roster alongside All Stars Damian Lillard and CJ Mccollum.
The deficiency of distinctive free agency moves following the forfeiture of key role-players in Ed Davis and Shabazz Napier could hurt them in the forthcoming year. With their backcourt sustaining majority of their scoring load, the Clippers possess elite guard defenders to offset their influence. Comprising a higher grade of depth and consistency within their roster, the Clippers seem equipped to edge this game out.