Powell’s unconscious scoring headlines the LA Clippers’ preseason finale

With the 2022 preseason ending, the LA Clippers left their fans with several moments to remember. From a blowout win in game one to Wall’s unreal performance in game three, the LA Clippers took advantage of the opportunity to shine at any given moment. Furthermore, the final preseason game against the Denver Nuggets was filled with countless highlights and bright spots heading into the season.

Following a bumpy start in his preseason debut, Norman Powell reminded the fans why the Clippers traded for him. Not only was he scoring at all three levels, but he showed the uttermost effort on the defensive side of the ball. Moreover, Powell posted 34 points and three rebounds while shooting 11-14 from the field and 4-6 from the three-point line. He did all of this while only playing for 25 minutes.

While the franchise star, Kawhi Leonard, did not suit up for precautionary reasons, his teammate Paul George thrived off the ball. George’s efficiency may not have been the best, but he added six rebounds, four assists, and five steals in 16 minutes of playing time. This backs up how scary the Clippers can be, even when their stars are not able to score.

The LA Clippers’ most significant concern is spreading the minutes through their rotational players. Having depth at the wing position is a plus. Still, there may be several occasions where players like Robert Covington and Amir Coffey do not play the minutes they desire. However, this should not be a problem, as head coach Tyronn Lue has established a winning mindset throughout his roster.

The LA Clippers did not miss a beat in their final preseason outing.

Despite the loss, the LA Clippers’ last preseason game was the best of them all. Although Powell scored the ball at a ridiculously high level, the night’s highlight goes to the second-round draft pick, Moussa Diabate. Not only did he have a vicious dunk, but he dominated on both ends, making his case for the backup center role in Lue’s rotation.

Not to mention, countless other young stars prospered in any chance they were given. Last year’s 33rd overall draft pick, Jason Preston, showed many signs of star potential. Preston’s most vital attribute coming into the NBA is his play-making abilities. While his scoring may take time to develop, his impact is unteachable. In addition, Preston led the team in +/- with a +9 through 18 minutes played.

Outside of Leonard, George, and Powell, John Wall continues to flourish as he proves he is the ideal fit to start at point guard. His court vision will be essential in the LA Clippers’ title hopes. As soon as he drives into the paint, Wall attracts multiple defenders leading to wide-open looks from three. Having Luke Kennard open on the perimeter will be unfair to an opposing team’s defensive game plan.

As a team, the LA Clippers look more potent than ever before. Based on their performances thus far, very few teams will be able to battle with the LA Clippers in a seven-game series. With the amount of talent Lue has on both sides of the ball, it is a given that the LA Clippers will finish as one of the best teams in the NBA.