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LA Clippers: 3 Reasons Why Signing Serge Ibaka Was Important

By Michael Hanich

OAKLAND, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 13: Kawhi Leonard #2 and Serge Ibaka #9 of the Toronto Raptors celebrates their teams victory over the Golden State Warriors in Game Six to win the 2019 NBA Finals at ORACLE Arena on June 13, 2019 in Oakland, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
OAKLAND, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 13: Kawhi Leonard #2 and Serge Ibaka #9 of the Toronto Raptors celebrates their teams victory over the Golden State Warriors in Game Six to win the 2019 NBA Finals at ORACLE Arena on June 13, 2019 in Oakland, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) /
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LA Clippers, Paul George
LA Clippers Paul George (Photo by Ashley Landis-Pool/Getty Images) /

2. Paul George will have a more Positive Chemistry this season with Serge Ibaka

The Clippers had one of the most talented rosters in the entire NBA this past season. Leonard and George were certainly two of the biggest playmakers on the team, but the team wasn’t afraid to have Harrell, Lou Williams, or any role player and lead them to victory. The biggest downfall of the team was their team chemistry from a few role players, especially from Harrell. There were early signs in the season that should have been addressed during that time but was overlooked by former head coach Doc Rivers.

There were reports of a verbal fight between Harrell and George during game two of the second-round series between the Clippers and the Nuggets. George was suffering from anxiety and depression during the fight round of the playoffs against the Dallas Mavericks.

George’s performance in the playoffs suffered as he averaged 20.2 points per game shooting 39.8% from field-goals and 33.3% from the three-point arc. After George was feeling better, the team chemistry fell apart again. The team knew that the divorce from Harrell was tough, but much needed.

Ibaka is a player that is highly embracive of his teammates through his on the court team building,  YouTube videos, and personal bonding. His attitude towards winning but his relationship-building charisma is a huge plus for George.

Ibaka was key in helping develop new Raptors star in guard Fred VanVleet and power forward Pascal Siakam, a 2020 NBA All-Star, up until this offseason. He also never challenged his role on the team with Toronto. His aggressive playing ability will open situations for George, Lou Williams, Marcus Morris, new shooting guard Luke Kennard to make some efficient shots.

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