The LA Clippers stomp over the Cavaliers in a wild finish

After coming up empty to the Utah Jazz, the LA Clippers made some noise in their following match-up. Head coach Tyronn Lue put together the appropriate game-plan, resulting in a crucial win over the young and gritty Cleveland Cavaliers.

While the franchise superstar Paul George had another epic performance, he received help from the entire squad. As a team, the LA Clippers shot 50.6% from the field, 44.7% from three, and only turned the ball over nine times. These numbers are easily the best of the season for the Clippers, despite not having several key players in Kawhi Leonard and John Wall.

In addition, the three-level scoring guard Reggie Jackson may have had his best game of the young season. Jackson capped the win with 18 points and seven assists while shooting 6-11 from the field, including some critical free throws to end the game. This performance was significant for his confidence, as he has been in a minor shooting slump all season long.

Not to mention, the main reason the LA Clippers came out on top was due to their perfect game plan down the stretch. Although they were in a 13-point deficit late in the fourth, the Clippers ended the contest on a 21-6 scoring run. This would not have been possible without George’s late-game contributions, along with the hustle from players like Norman Powell and Terance Mann.

The intensity by the LA Clippers on both ends paved the way for the best win of the regular season.

Regardless of the Cavaliers’ exceptional shooting splits, the LA Clippers came up big in clutch minutes with continuous defensive stops and several buckets around the rim. George may have been the team’s leader, but Mann impacted the game the most. On top of his 16 points and five assists, Mann made a momentum-shifting play on the defensive end, which gave the Clippers hope late in the game.

Another player who continues to live up to the hype is the shot-creating specialist Marcus Morris. His consistency and early scoring allow the Clippers to stay in the game, especially against talented teams like the Cavaliers. Additionally, Morris made his fair share of plays in the second half, which impacted the overall outcome of the game.

Moreover, a team performance like this shows that Leonard can utilize as much time as he needs to be ready for the postseason. His return may take some getting used to, but in the long run, the LA Clippers should hit the record books. If Lue and his squad are able to compete with some of the best teams without numerous key players, it will be unfair to what damage the Clippers can do when fully healthy.

That said, Lue’s next contest is against the cross-town rival, Los Angeles Lakers. A similar scheme should be implemented in the Battle of LA, as the Clippers should allow their defense to create opportunities for the offense. However, Lue must utilize his big men in every way possible, as the Lakers’ primary focus is the painted area.