By virtue of their latest title run, the Golden State Warriors has emerged as next years championship favorites. Be that as it may, the LA Clippers, despite missing out on the postseason action this year, is viewed in high regard in the betting world.
Thanks to what should be a fully fit Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, coupled with a refortified bench that will feature newly acquired pieces Norman Powell and Robert Covington, the Clippers have emerged as the fourth likely team to hoist next seasons Larry O’Brien trophy.
While the betting public has viewed LA as the fourth best team in the entire NBA, they have protruded to the top of the Western Conference. According to oddsmakers, all three teams that are currently ahead of LA reside on the Eastern side of the bracket. Those would include the Brooklyn Nets, the Boston Celtics, and the aforementioned Warriors.
LA Clippers are viewed as one of the title favorites next season
LA’s lofty expectations heading into next season, follows a particular trend. According to several NBA prognosticators, including Charles Barkley, the LA Clippers are primed and ready for a deep run next season. Barkley, known for audacious comments, believes staunchly that a healthy Kawhi Leonard, followed by his ancillary pieces, will be more then enough to knock off every team that stands in their championship path.
On the year, LA battled constant lineup changes, perpetual injuries, and tenuous play down the stretch. Still, even with some of their big guns hitting the mend, LA tallied 42 total wins, resulting in a trip to the NBAs newly revamped play-in tournament.
Ultimately, however, LA was unable to fend off the likes of the New Orleans Pelicans and the Minnesota Timberwolves. Regardless of their ouster, several Clippers players have been seen working diligently on their craft. One day prior to the NBA Finals coming to an end, Reggie Jackson and Norman Powell led a Clippers only workout in LA’s practice facility.
Although Leonard and George were absent from their team’s activities, both have been spotted working meticulously on their games as well.
Should the betting public’s words become prophetic, Clipper Nation could be in for their first trip to the NBA Finals.