The LA Clippers have made their tone clear following two preseason wins and an eventful media day. When looking at the chemistry, culture, and roster depth, it is clear that the Clippers’ end goal is to win the NBA Finals. With everything on the line this season, it is championship or bust for head coach Tyronn Lue.
Furthermore, the LA Clippers recently held an open practice for NBA fans to watch and interact with players ahead of their third preseason game against the Minnesota Timberwolves. This practice gave fans a glimpse of what to expect throughout the 2022 regular season.
Throughout the open practice, there were several moments worth taking note of. After a tremendous first half against the Portland Trail Blazers, it is safe to say that franchise superstar, Kawhi Leonard, is officially back. In a transition play during the practice, Leonard threw down a reverse dunk, showing fans that he is in the best shape of his career. Although he missed last season due to an ACL injury, Leonard has proven how hard he worked in his time off the court.
Kawhi transition jam pic.twitter.com/0ht2Clk9YL
— Andrew Greif (@AndrewGreif) October 7, 2022
Leonard’s star teammate, Paul George, added to the fans’ excitement by knocking down several difficult shots. Moreover, the LA Clippers took the off-season grind to an unreal extent. The players, coaching, and front office know this season is the perfect chance for the franchise to make history.
Fans should have high expectations as the LA Clippers aim for a deep postseason run.
One of the essential components of the LA Clippers’ open practice was how their chemistry had come together after a season that ended early. Fans should have no worries, as the former five-time All-Star, John Wall, showed off his dance moves towards the end of the open runs.
John Wall hits the dougie at Clippers practice 🔥
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) October 7, 2022
(via @LAClippers) pic.twitter.com/I0da2tF1aB
Despite a rough showing in his preseason debut, Wall seems to be in phenomenal shape. Considering that he has not played an NBA game in over a year, Wall’s athleticism is off the charts. He still has a quick first step, extraordinary finishing abilities, and an outstanding pass-first mentality. His contributions will be significant in a title run for the LA Clippers this season.
Following the addition of Wall, one question that has come to light was the competition at the point guard position. Lue provided insight on these concerns as he explained that the fit is most important. He understands that Reggie Jackson also possesses the tools needed for the starting job and that their roles will be adjusted accordingly.
"Just the fits. I think which guys fits better with the first unit who fits w/ second unit, who plays well together. It's not about the best player, it's about what's the best fit for our team to be successful."
— Tomer Azarly (@TomerAzarly) October 6, 2022
Tyronn Lue on the Reggie Jackson/John Wall point guard competition pic.twitter.com/jC1kLuCHxz
The last few weeks have been full of fun and excitement for LA Clipper fans. Based on their current roster depth, it would be no mistake to have the Clippers as the best team in the league. If they surpass expectations, several players may find themselves in the discussion for some of the NBA’s most notable awards.