The LA Clippers’ defense had no answer for Golden State

Throughout the LA Clippers’ three-game win streak, they played exceptionally well, showing signs of championship potential. Head coach Tyronn Lue and his staff seemingly turned things around. However, the Clippers had no response to the Golden State Warriors on both ends of the floor.

Although the Warriors recently won an NBA championship, they were 8-10 through their first 18 games. That said, the Clippers had no reason to lose by 17, even though they were shorthanded. The former rookie of the year, Andrew Wiggins, was finding countless uncontested shots around the perimeter. Hence his 31 points on 12-18 shooting. This performance could have been prevented if the Clippers had shown a sense of urgency on the defensive end.

Furthermore, one concern that continues to rise is the role of the two-way wing, Robert Covington. Fans are unsure what the coaching staff has in mind, as Covington could quickly provide the Clippers with a much-needed impact. While other players deserve their respective playing time, there should be no reason why Covington is out of the rotation.

In addition, the backup center role has yet to be decided. Lue has inserted the glass-cleaning big man Moses Brown into the lineup quite a few times this season. Though he may have potential, Brown is not the answer right now. As trade discussions are building up, Lue has his rookie center, Moussa Diabate, dominating the G-League. It wouldn’t hurt to call him up and see what he could do.

There were no bright spots in the Clippers’ loss to the Warriors.

Throughout the game, the LA Clippers continuously gave up easy baskets to the Warriors. This is not something the fans are accustomed to, as Lue and his squad currently rank as one of the best defensive teams in the NBA.

On the offensive end, their struggles were understandable as the Clippers were without their superstar duo Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, as well as the sharpshooting guard Luke Kennard. In fact, the team played reasonably well, considering how shorthanded they were. However, their free-throw line efficiency and turnovers ultimately hurt their chances of winning.

Not to mention, this loss displayed how significant the contributions of Leonard and George are. The team will need them very soon if they want to rise to the top of the Western Conference. Unfortunately, reports were released that there is no timetable for their return. This is important news for the Clippers and their hopes of making history.

Moreover, the Clippers’ next match-up is against the championship-contending Denver Nuggets. This contest may be the toughest of the season, especially if the Clippers do not make corrections on the defensive end. Regardless of Leonard and George’s injury status, this is a winnable game if Lue builds his rotations accordingly.