LA Clippers: 3 Players to Watch for Against the Dallas Mavericks

2. Nicolas Batum

One of the biggest surprises of the new season for the Clippers is the impact of newly-signed forward Nicolas Batum. In two games this season, both of them as the starting power forward, Batum has averaged eight points per game, eight rebounds per game (team-leading), five assists per game, and 1.5 steals per game on 32.5 minutes per game. His contributions on both ends of the court have been highly impactful for the Clippers.

Depending on the news of star small forward Kawhi Leonard after receiving eight stitches in his mouth after the Nuggets, Batum may have his role increase even more. Batum is a great player in the system of Ty Lue as well as small-ball and playing deep in the paint. Whether it is either Serge Ibaka or Ivica Zubac at the center position, Batum can play well maneuvering the ball to either a passing situation or him taking the shot. He has been a very reliable player for the Clippers while power forward Marcus Morris is out.

In the game against the Nuggets on Christmas night, Batum accumulated 13 points, 10 rebounds, four assists, one steal, and one block on 36 minutes. He was also +13 while on the floor for the Clippers. Just like he was an underrated performer for the Clippers against the Nuggets, Batum will need to be alert on both ends of the court against the Mavericks. He will be paired against forward Dorian Finney-Smith, who has averaged 10.5 points per game and five rebounds per game.

One assignment that Batum will be important on the defensive side of the ball is keeping track of the potential passing lanes of Doncic and point guard Trey Burke. He will be efficient in the paint against players either attacking the rim or given elusive passes.