January 12-18
January 12 – @ Denver Nuggets
After losing to the Warriors, the Clippers get one day of rest and then head to Denver to play the Nuggets. I really don’t see LA winning this one. Let’s look at what the Nuggets have going for them:
- Elite center? Check
- Atmosphere? Check
- Depth? Check
The Nuggest scare me more than most teams do. Yes, the Clips still have the advantage at the wing, but Jokic is just so damn good. Couple that with having to play in Denver’s atmosphere just a day removed from a tough battle with the Warriors and I can’t really see how the Clips pull this off. They drop their second in a row.
January 14 – vs. Cleveland Cavaliers
Thankfully for the Clips after dropping two straight, they head back home for a couple of should be easy wins. First up is the Cleveland Cavaliers who should be dispensed with little effort.
January 16 – vs. Orlando Magic
Remember when I said the Clips have to face just four playoff teams from last year this month? The Orlando Magic are one of them. I know. It took me a second to realize it myself. Their biggest add this summer was Al-Farouq Aminu, so unless Markelle Fultz magically heals and becomes the G.O.A.T, I see this as another straight forward win for LA.
January 18 – @ New Orleans Pelicans
For the start of the yearly “Grammy Trip” the Clips head down to The Big Easy to face the Pelicans who are led by Zion Williamson. The Pelicans are a very young and very exciting team. Jrue Holiday and J.J. Redick offer veteran leadership while still providing a lot on the court and Zion along with Lonzo Ball, Brandon Ingram and several other young players look to form a possible championship contender in a few years. This will be a hard fought one for the Clips and I can see the quick paced Pelicans pulling off an upset.