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LA Clippers: Three things to watch for versus OKC

By Ryan Snellings

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 22: Luguentz Dort #5 of the Oklahoma City Thunder drives to the basket while defended by Paul George #13 of the Los Angeles Clippers during the first quarter at Staples Center on January 22, 2021 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 Katelyn Mulcahy/Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 22: Luguentz Dort #5 of the Oklahoma City Thunder drives to the basket while defended by Paul George #13 of the Los Angeles Clippers during the first quarter at Staples Center on January 22, 2021 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 Katelyn Mulcahy/Getty Images) /
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LA Clippers, Serge Ibaka
LA Clippers Serge Ibaka (Photo by Katelyn Mulcahy/Getty Images) /

3. What to watch for from the LA Clippers: Can the bigs dominate again?

Serge Ibaka and Ivica Zubac were both extremely dominant versus the Thunder on Friday night.

Ibaka scored 17 points and grabbed 11 rebounds while Ibaka came off the bench to the tune of 8 points, 6 rebounds, and a blocked shot.

OKC had no answer for the duo and there were times that one of the Clippers’ bigs would grab a rebound surrounded by three or more Thunder players.

The Clippers’ bigs are extremely solid but there aren’t a ton of matchups in the league where I would say they should focus on getting the two the ball. Today, however, is one of those days.

If Ibaka and Zu can both get rolling, not only will the Clippers get the Thunder in early foul trouble, but it will also help Paul George and Kawhi Leonard take on less of a burden. The two can focus more on their playmaking and less on trying to score, something that should provide them a bit more rest.

As of now, we have no indication that either will miss games to load manage, so finding spots where they can have less of a workload will have to do. Today is a perfect chance for that and will also serve to keep Ibaka and Zu happy and involved.

Next. 3 keys to the Clippers' 6 game win streak. dark

The Clippers host the Thunder at 1:00 pm PST. Make sure to check back here afterward for all your postgame coverage, news, analysis, and more!

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