As the LA Clippers’ 2022–23 season is right around the corner, head coach Tyronn Lue will need all the help he can get. Following a phenomenal off-season from the front office, there should be no reason the LA Clippers do not finish top three in the Western Conference. The Clippers will enter next season with their focus centered on winning the NBA Finals.
During the LA Clippers’ media day, franchise stars Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, along with several others, shared their excitement for the upcoming season. George, in particular, made it clear how hard he had been working throughout the off-season. He knows that it is now or never for the Clippers, as next season will likely be the most important in franchise history.
Paul George said he’s had an “internal promise” to win a title & this year’s Clippers are “talent-wise, pretty special.”
— Ben Golliver (@BenGolliver) September 26, 2022
- Adds that Clippers can take a “Team USA approach” to going hard in their minutes because the roster is so deep. pic.twitter.com/Smko58Gpkj
Another key component of the Clippers’ media day was checking in on Leonard’s health. After missing all of last season due to an ACL tear, Clipper fans were eager to hear any updates on the two-time champion. There should be no further concern over the status of Leonard, as he appears to be fully healthy and plans to participate in training camp.
Additionally, star shooting guard Norman Powell also mentioned his goals ahead of his eighth season in the NBA. Powell will have a heavy load this season, despite the possibility of him coming off the bench as the sixth man. Powell must take advantage of any opportunities that come his way, as he hopes to be selected for his first ever All-Star game this season.
Norman Powell said his personal goal this season is to prove that he's an All-Star and a starting two-guard.
— Farbod Esnaashari (@Farbod_E) September 26, 2022
LA Clipper fans have so much to look forward to this season. One of the general purposes of the media day was to raise energy for what may be a historic year for the LA Clippers. Although many factors stand in the way of a championship, Lue and the Clippers have all of the pieces in place for a successful season.
Clippers Media Day assured fans that a deep playoff run is on the way
Throughout the season, the chemistry and motive must remain at a high standard if the LA Clippers are aiming to win it all. On the bright side, this should not be much of a problem. Lue, along with several experienced veterans, knows exactly what it takes to win a title. Each player will have their own responsibilities based on their value and what is expected of them.
A player who was rumored to be traded during the off-season was sharpshooting forward Marcus Morris. After these trade discussions were put to an end, Morris used the media day to enlighten the fans on his expectations for the upcoming season.
Marcus Morris: "This is the best I've felt in a long time, I'm dunking now. I'm going to be the best three-point shooter in the league this year."
— Farbod Esnaashari (@Farbod_E) September 26, 2022
In 2020–21, Morris finished the regular season as a 47.3% three-point shooter. If Morris can lead the NBA in three-point shooting once again, the LA Clippers could easily seal the deal as the number one seed in the Western Conference. Not to mention, the Clippers also have Luke Kennard, who recently led the league in three-point shooting.
In addition, there were several questions raised after the LA Clippers acquired two-way point guard John Wall. The press made sure to address these concerns regarding Wall’s role and what he brought to the table. Wall has been working with George all off-season, leading up to arguably the most important season of his professional career.
John Wall says he'll do whatever role Ty Lue asks him to play.
— Andrew Greif (@AndrewGreif) September 26, 2022
Asked if he has a chip on his shoulder: "Yeah I got a chip on my shoulder, anyone would. ... Basketball is my sanctuary."
The LA Clippers’ Media Day gave the fans a preview of what is in the works. In the season ahead, George, Leonard, Powell, and countless others chimed in on what they hoped to accomplish this season.