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3 LA Clippers’ players that have to step up without Paul George

By Ryan Snellings

CLEVELAND, OHIO - FEBRUARY 03: Paul George #13 of the LA Clippers looks for a pass during the fourth quarter against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse on February 03, 2021 in Cleveland, Ohio. 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 Jason Miller/Getty Images)
CLEVELAND, OHIO - FEBRUARY 03: Paul George #13 of the LA Clippers looks for a pass during the fourth quarter against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse on February 03, 2021 in Cleveland, Ohio. 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 Jason Miller/Getty Images) /
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LA Clippers Luke Kennard
LA Clippers Luke Kennard (Photo by Douglas P. DeFelice/Getty Images) /

3. LA Clippers’ player that must step up: Luke Kennard

Luke Kennard absolutely has to step up with Paul George missing time. We all know about his contract extension from this summer. We know that he hasn’t exactly played up to it, either.

Surprisingly enough, he is shooting a career-high percentage both overall and from deep. While that’s all great and everything, he just isn’t playing with confidence. If he is going to continue to get the start in George’s absence, he cannot hesitate.

We saw signs of him starting to believe in his shot over the past couple of games with him having big starts to both. In Friday’s game against Boston, he got out to a quick five of seven from the field with 13 points but only attempted two shots in the second half, converting on neither of them.

He can absolutely fill in for PG in the starting lineup giving his ability to space the floor. It really just comes down to his confidence. We know the defense is going to be a downgrade but with Patrick Beverley hopefully returning to the starting lineup soon, some of that can hopefully be offset.

Kennard also has the ability to play make and can take a more primary role with the first unit. Last season with Detroit, he averaged a career-high 4.1 assists. This season, he’s only dishing out 1.8 per game (obviously with lower usage). The ability is there and the Clips should expect him to do a little more with the ball in his hand with the first unit.

If the LA Clippers plan to keep winning while Paul George is out, Luke Kennard needs to step up and prove that he is worth every penny that the team gave him.

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