Garbage time comes early as the LA Clippers lose at home
As of late, the LA Clippers have been struggling on both ends of the court. Role players are worn out, leading to several consecutive sub-par performances. Fans should not have high expectations, especially considering how short-staffed the Clippers have been.
Furthermore, it is understandable why head coach Tyronn Lue’s game plan did not stand a chance against the Sacramento Kings. Right off the bat, their all-star tandem took advantage of the Clippers on both ends of the floor. Not to mention the Kings have one of the best coaches in the league, as well as some of the most substantial role players.
Though franchise superstars Kawhi Leonard and Paul George were questionable, they sat this one out, making it inevitable that the Clippers were in a difficult position to win. Additionally, the team could have handled this news better, as only one player finished with a positive +/-.
With 24 games of the season out of the way, it is clear what type of team the Clippers are without their superstar duo. Similar to last year, Lue’s scheme is not built to handle an overload of injuries. The team will need to be fully healthy if they are hoping to attain one of the top seeds in the Western Conference.
Ivica Zubac on playing another season without Kawhi and PG:
— Farbod Esnaashari (@Farbod_E) December 4, 2022
It's very exhausting. We've been playing so many games.. It's hard when you've got less bodies. It's hard but guys have injuries everywhere. Some teams just get more unlucky... We've gotta hold up until they come back."
The LA Clippers appear to be extremely weak without some of their vital rotational pieces.
Throughout the last decade, injuries have constantly been a tricky issue to overcome for the LA Clippers. This is the same story-line this season, as George and Leonard have yet to play many games alongside each other. Fans are becoming increasingly concerned with fears that this team will not live up to its full potential.
That said, the LA Clippers played horribly against a team they usually show no mercy against. Aside from shooting 35.5% from the field and 27.3% from three, the Clippers turned the ball over 17 times. In addition, the offense became stagnant, and the defense quickly ran out of energy.
However, interior big man Ivica Zubac did his best to keep the team on his back. He closed the contest with 13 points and 15 rebounds while shooting 5-6 from the field. As Lue waved the white flag quite early, young stars Brandon Boston Jr, Jason Preston, and Amir Coffey received some of the best minutes they have seen all year. In the end, the youngsters did not disappoint.
Next. Diabaté's abilities will boost the Clippers later in the season. dark
If the LA Clippers are looking to ignite a winning streak, they will need the help of their superstar talents. Fortunately, there is a good chance that Leonard and George will both return on the road trip to the Charlotte Hornets. This game is a must-win for Lue as the Clippers need to take advantage of how tight the Western Conference currently stands.