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Three key takeaways from the LA Clippers’ first two preseason games

By Daniel Lo Surdo

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - DECEMBER 13: Kawhi Leonard #2 of the LA Clippers cuts back during a preseason game against the Los Angeles Lakers at Staples Center on December 13, 2020 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - DECEMBER 13: Kawhi Leonard #2 of the LA Clippers cuts back during a preseason game against the Los Angeles Lakers at Staples Center on December 13, 2020 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) /
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LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 21: Ivica Zubac #40 of the LA Clippers reacts after a foul during the game against the Orlando Magic at Staples Center on February 21, 2020 in Los Angeles, 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 Harry How/Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 21: Ivica Zubac #40 of the LA Clippers reacts after a foul during the game against the Orlando Magic at Staples Center on February 21, 2020 in Los Angeles, 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 Harry How/Getty Images) /

A retooled bench unit must continue to be successful for the LA Clippers

The departures of bench staples Harrell and JaMychal Green in free agency precipitated the emergence of a reorganized second unit for the Clippers.

While Lou Williams will assuredly continue to lead the bench unit, the three-time Sixth Man of the Year will have to grow accustomed to playing beside a few new faces this season.

Luke Kennard and Nicolas Batum have joined the Clippers from Detroit and Charlotte respectively, while Ivica Zubac is installed as the side’s backup center to replace much of the minutes previously held by Harrell and Green.

Williams recognises that it will be crucial for the bench to grow increasingly familiar with each other over the course of the season.

“I think the identity of the whole second unit looks different,” Williams said. “For us to be successful, we’re all gonna have to get on the same page.”

Led by Williams and Harrell, the latter being awarded the NBA’s 2019/20 Sixth Man of the Year title, the Clippers continued as one of the most potent benches in the league last season.

While Zubac is effectively assuming Harrell’s minutes in the Clipper rotation, the Croatian can provide his teammates with broader opportunities for on-court productivity.

While setting quality screens for sharpshooters Kennard, Batum and Williams, Zubac will be assigned as the bench unit’s defensive anchor. On this end, Zubac’s prowess against isolation and post-up actions will forge a renewed defensive focus that promises to strengthen the second-team’s efficiency.

The 23-year-old’s presence as a rim protector and communicator will allow a more aggressive brand of defense for the Clippers, who will be encouraged to crowd perimeter opponents with the assurance of Zubac’s presence in the paint.

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