The LA Clippers’ offensive struggles haunt them in a loss to the Thunder
Since the start of the season, the LA Clippers have faced several difficulties. Head coach Tyronn Lue continues to work through his rotations as the staff remains highly cautious with their two-way superstar, Kawhi Leonard. Furthermore, Leonard had knee stiffness which ruled him out of consecutive match-ups against the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Moreover, the LA Clippers’ second loss of the year should be left behind. Not only were they without Leonard, but starting wings Paul George and Marcus Morris did not play either. As a result, Lue was forced into an uncomfortable position leading to the 14-point loss.
One player who continues to grow is the seven-foot big man Ivica Zubac. On both ends of the floor, Zubac is proving why the LA Clippers extended him during the off-season. After evaluating his performances thus far, it is safe to say that he could easily be in the conversation of the NBA’s most underappreciated centers.
Against the Thunder, Zubac posted ten points, 14 rebounds, and seven blocks, all while shooting 55.6% from the field. Although this is an impressive stat line, Clipper fans will continue to see Zubac dominate as the season progresses. In addition, sharpshooting guard Luke Kennard also played exceptionally well despite the loss.
Time will be the most essential component in the Clippers’ title hopes.
When looking at the box scores, the LA Clippers turned the ball over 18 times compared to the Thunder’s five. This adds that the team was careless with the ball and did not play their best on the defensive end. Additionally, the Clippers were out-rebounded and shot poorly from the free-throw line.
These issues have become quite noticeable over the last few games. What’s more, is that the LA Clippers did not have the best shooting splits. They finished the night at 42.2% from the field and 32.3% from the three-point line.
Part of the reason why the offense could not find momentum was due to the unusual play of the play-making point guard, Reggie Jackson. Throughout the game, Jackson shot 4-17 and turned the ball over three times. This led to Lue providing insight into his groin injury and how that may be the cause of his struggles.
Tyronn Lue believes Reggie Jackson's groin injury is still affecting him:
— Tomer Azarly (@TomerAzarly) October 26, 2022
"I think more than he’s leading on. But Reggie wants to play... I didn’t fault his effort, how he’s trying to play. He struggled shooting the basketball, but I thought he tried to do the right thing."
Next. George's career night against the Kings is one to remember. dark
Four games into the year, the LA Clippers need to get it together before they lose sight of a top seed in the Western Conference. Lue will have to work around injuries as they are part of the game. This is an opportunity for the depth to come to light for the Clippers as they look to take advantage of their next few opponents.