The LA Clippers bench scored 59 of the team’s 125 points in Friday night’s win over the Chicago Bulls. The burst was led by Marcus Morris who was an efficient six of ten from the field, dropping 20 points. Lou Williams added 17, Ivica Zubac had 12, and Terance Mann added in seven.
That hasn’t been the norm this season but as of late, the group has been starting to click.
Now, the league should be worried that the LA Clippers’ bench is figuring everything out.
The biggest two contributors as of late have been Lou Williams and Ivica Zubac. Williams started off the season not looking like himself but over the last couple of weeks, he has really stepped up his play. It might be a little too late for him to get serious award contention but he is putting up quality Sixth Man of the Year numbers.
Part of that success has come from his partnership with Ivica Zubac. The two are still working on their chemistry but as they have continued playing together, it’s becoming quite the one-two punch.
Marcus Morris’ move to the bench has also been great for the second unit, giving them someone else who can get a bucket at any time. His unselfish thought to come off the bench will do nothing but help this team as the season goes and will give the Clippers at least one scoring wing on the court at all times come postseason.
Terance Mann has also been a pleasant surprise. After not cracking into the rotation last season, his energy has found him a place. Part of that time he has found has come at the detriment of Luke Kennard, who has struggled. While Clipper Nation is having a hard time swallowing Kennard’s contract, they should at least be happy that Mann is showing he can be a rotational piece.
Speaking of struggling, there’s still a chance Kennard improves. Even if he doesn’t get more aggressive, there’s at least comfort in knowing he’s an accurate shooter. As a possible tenth man on the roster, that’s not a bad thing. Reggie Jackson also had a few issues to start this season but Ty Lue has done well in keeping him on a short leash, leading him to find success with the starters while Patrick Beverley was out. As he moves back to the second unit, he hopefully can continue to play within the system.
The LA Clippers might only roll out 7-9 guys come playoff time. With the depth this team has, that is going to be a scary rotation for anyone.