Following a 2-4 start to the regular season, the LA Clippers seem to have figured things out. As they are now 11-7, head coach Tyronn Lue and his squad are trending in the right direction. The Clippers’ offense is starting to build momentum as their defense continues to show out.
Furthermore, one of these 11 wins includes a near-perfect performance against the Utah Jazz. While they did lose to them earlier in the year, it became clear that Lue utilized the film room to his advantage. Outside of a few minor errors, the Clippers played phenomenally.
From start to finish, the team was carried on the backs of two vital pieces, Reggie Jackson and Norman Powell. These two combined for 57 points, five assists, and seven rebounds on 20-35 shooting. This is exactly what the team needed in the absence of franchise stud Paul George.
Not to mention, George’s star teammate Kawhi Leonard was another essential component to the victory despite his eight points. Leonard may not have scored the ball, but he posted eight rebounds and five assists on a +/- of +12.
The LA Clippers are officially back in business.
Though the LA Clippers showed many signs of concern, a win against one of the best teams in the league is exactly what they needed. Even without George, this team showed how powerful they could be when all their strengths come together. Had George been there for the Clippers, this win would have likely been in double digits.
Moreover, another bright spot in the 121-114 victory was the seven-foot big man Ivica Zubac. He continues to make a push for an All-Star as he ended the win with 14 points, 14 rebounds, and two blocks. Although these stat lines may be sustainable, the front office will need to get him some help as the season continues.
Reggie Jackson behind the back DIME to Ivica Zubac 🔥 pic.twitter.com/6is6MaKCKo
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) November 22, 2022
In addition, the LA Clippers had another efficient scoring night. The team shot 51.6% from the field, 37.5% from three, and 94.7% from the line. This is the version of the Clippers that fans are accustomed to in winning performances.
That said, Lue and his squad will take on the reigning NBA champions for their next contest. Not only does Golden State have some of the league’s best talent, but they also have an All-Time great head coach. A win against the Warriors could go a long way for the LA Clippers as they are closing in on the first seed in the Western Conference.