February 8-13
The Clippers head out east for four straight games before heading to All-Star Weekend in Chicago.
February 8 – @ Minnesota Timberwolves
After just seeing each other a week ago, the Clippers travel to Minnesota for a rematch versus the Wolves. This time, the Wolves get the better of the Clippers.
February 9 – @ Cleveland Cavaliers
Having just lost a disappointing game versus Minnesota, a game in Cleveland is just what the doctor ordered. The Cavs probably will have dealt Kevin Love just days prior, so it’s entirely possible the Clippers are playing a very new look Cavs who are firmly rebuilding.
Whether or not Love is on the team’s roster, the Cavs shouldn’t pose much of a threat. Collin Sexton showed some promise last year and 2019 fifth overall pick Darius Garland will make their backcourt even better, but this team is just too young to do anything substantial. Clips pick up the dub.
February 11 – @ Philadelphia 76ers
It’s a good thing the Clips had an easy game in Cleveland prior to heading to Philly because this one could get bad. The 76ers are built differently from just about every other team in the league. While most are embracing quickness and two or three guard lineups, the 76ers have gone all in on height.
In case you didn’t know, Ben Simmons is a very tall point guard. Joel Embiid is also a large human manning the center position. To make themselves even better, they added Al Horford this summer to play power forward. Tobias Harris is also pretty large for a small forward. Josh Richardson, their shortest starter, is 6’6″.
It’s not like all they can do is be tall either. Embiid could be a huge threat this year if he is able to properly direct the anger and pain he felt after losing last year’s playoff series against the Raptors. Al Horford is the consummate professional and Ben Simmons actually looks like he learned what a jump shot is this summer.
In short (ha, height joke!), the Clips just aren’t built to take on the 76ers without some major planning. This very well could be the NBA Finals matchup and I have Philly taking this regular season meeting.
February 13 – @ Boston Celtics
After an extremely tough game in Philly, the Clips head up to New England to take on the Boston Celtics. The Celtics will be right in the midst of the playoff race, led by Kemba Walker. I’m honestly not sure how good the Celtics will be. Four of their players (Walker, Jaylen Brown, Jayson Tatum and Marcus Smart) just competed in the World Cup and didn’t look amazing, but that experience also could help motivate them and grow together.
For this game, I can see the Clips struggling. They’ll be ready for the All-Star break and that little bit of faltering is enough for the Celtics to take it.