Following a historic playoff run in 2020-21, the LA Clippers do not appear to be anywhere near that threshold. Outside of an injury-riddled roster, players are not active on the defensive end and are taking tough shots on offense. While there is still time to adjust, the Clippers have a long way to go.
For a team that had high expectations coming into the season, a 14-13 record can pose quite a disappointment. In addition, head coach Tyronn Lue’s strategy does not fit what the team needs to win. Robert Covington, one of the most valuable players on the roster, has worked his way out of the rotation. This decision is unreasonable, as the Clippers have been falling apart defensively.
With the superstar duo of Kawhi Leonard and Paul George constantly battling injuries, the front office could look to make numerous moves at the trade deadline. One of these additions could be another all-star to close the gap in the games Leonard and George miss. As the coaching staff understands this season is their best opportunity to win it all, they must find a way to progress through the year.
However, if this season does not pan out, the LA Clippers should consider entering a complete rebuild. This may come off as a bit underwhelming as the team would have missed their window during the ‘Lob City’ era, and the time Leonard and George spent with the franchise.
The rest of the season will bring significant questions for the future of the Clippers.
After trading away a franchise piece in Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the LA Clippers still need to follow through with their championship aspirations. With how this season has started, it appears the Clippers lost this trade. Though this may not be the news fans want to hear, it is the harsh truth.
Not to mention, the LA Clippers traded away a historic amount of draft picks, along with a three-level scorer in Danilo Gallinari, to receive George. If head coach Tyronn Lue cannot come out with a championship, this chapter may go down as a failed mission.
Furthermore, the Clippers have several assets to trade away for a rebuild. Additionally, the front office has done a phenomenal job in the second round, drafting future stars in Terance Mann, Jason Preston, Moussa Diabaté, and Brandon Boston Jr. The LA Clippers will not have to trade much, as they have a solid foundation.
Pure DOMINANCE from Moussa Diabate and Jason Preston 🔥
— NBA G League (@nbagleague) December 9, 2022
The pair had career nights to lead the way for the @OntClippers in the victory! pic.twitter.com/eYcaADam2G
Moreover, players must ignite a sense of urgency in the locker room and court. Although the biggest question is health, it is too early to tell how this season will close out. Lue will have to work around the injuries and hope that Leonard and George will find their way through injuries towards the end of the year.