George’s scoring magic comes up short as the LA Clippers fall to the Jazz

Throughout the LA Clippers’ three-game win streak, the errors the team was facing earlier in the season had disappeared. There appeared to be much more effort on the glass, a structured defensive scheme, and an aggressive approach from the franchise centerpiece Paul George.

Furthermore, the LA Clippers fought a tough match against the Utah Jazz despite the loss. During the first half, George went unconscious, scoring 24 points on 9-13 shooting from the field. Aside from George, two vital pieces, Marcus Morris and Terance Mann, stepped up big throughout the entirety of the game.

During the second half, play-making point guard John Wall showed aggression at the rim, pushing the Clippers in front. While there were several opportunities to capitalize on a lead, the team could not knock their shots down in the final quarter. On the flip side, the Jazz scored rapidly, which resulted in the the Clippers’ fifth loss.

Although there should be no concerns, head coach Tyrone Lue needs his two-way superstar Kawhi Leonard. Not to mention, the sharp-shooting guard Luke Kennard was also ruled out due to chest discomfort. While the Clippers should have won this game, the injuries they are battling are holding the team back down the stretch.

If the LA Clippers didn’t go ice cold in the fourth quarter, the winning streak would’ve been extended to four games.

Despite a solid third-quarter performance from the LA Clippers, George, Wall, and Morris went 0-11 from three in the final frame. This was the main reason why Lue and his squad could not pull out the win.

Not to mention, the slashing wing, Norman Powell, has been in one of the worst shooting slumps in his veteran career. In his performance versus the Jazz, Powell ended the night with only six points on 3-8 shooting. Although this is not the version of Powell Clipper fans are used to watching, he will likely find his groove as the season moves forward.

Moreover, the Jazz have surprised many this year, as they were 7-3 before their contest with the Clippers. It is understandable why Lue’s win streak ended, as the team currently lacks a star next to George.  Additionally, Leonard may take a number of games to return as Lue mentioned pregame that his timetable is up in the air.

In their next match-up against the Cleveland Cavaliers, the LA Clippers will have to play hard from start to finish. There is no room for error, as the Cavaliers are an underrated team with an absurd amount of talent and experience. Lue’s game-plan must be centered around George, Morris, and Zubac to create opportunities for the rest of the squad.