LA Clippers: Three things to watch vs. the Boston Celtics
1. Kawhi Leonard and Paul George dominating Celtics wings
With Kawhi Leonard and Paul George in the lineup, the Clippers have the best wing duo in the league on both ends of the floor. The young Celtics wings, Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum, are sure to struggle.
Jayson Tatum has taken the jump to being the player that many Celtics fans thought he already was. This season, Tatum is posting per game averages of 20.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 1.5 steals. This is reminiscent of his breakout performances in the 2018 playoffs. He is a legitimate second option on a contending team. Regardless, when in the clamps of Paul George or Kawhi Leonard, Tatum’s numbers are sure to see a dip.
Jaylen Brown has seemed much improved since his rough campaign last season, and it comes at a good time, as just before the season began, the third pick in the 2016 NBA Draft signed a massive new contract extension. Brown is also posting career bests. In just over 32 minutes per game, the 6’6 wing is averaging 19.5 points and 7.3 rebounds per game. Despite how solid he’s been, it’s safer to bet on Leonard and George’s ability to slow down his production tonight.
On the season so far, Leonard is averaging 26.8 points, 8.9 rebounds, and 6.0 assists per game — all careers highs — whereas George, though only three games, is putting up 29.3 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 3.7 assists. The young Celtics have looked good so far, but they are no match for the superstars on the Clippers.
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The Celtics are, however, a very good team, and this will not be a cakewalk. I do predict the Clippers to edge out a victory. They have more star power, a better frontcourt, and no vital players that are struggling.