With the LA Clippers progressing through their season, the number of games won has gone beyond underwhelming. While head coach Tyronn Lue may have an immensely talented roster, injuries and other aspects have given the team a challenging task.
However, there is no rationale behind losing eight games out of the last ten while also being at a .500 record. Needless to say, that’s what the LA Clippers have done following their loss to the Philadelphia 76ers. This game was significant for various reasons, one of which Lue must find a turning point to lead a winning streak.
Although franchise stud Paul George made his return, he was on a minute restriction which ultimately held the pressure on his star teammate Kawhi Leonard. Though Leonard dominated with 27 points, his only notable help was from two-way players in Ivica Zubac and Norman Powell.
Furthermore, the LA Clippers need help, especially when their stars struggle with injuries. This issue should be addressed at the trade deadline, as the franchise will only be able to make a leap with another all-star.
Turnovers are coming back to crush the LA Clippers.
One common trend throughout the LA Clippers’ current record has been how often they turn the ball over. The primary reason for a portion of their losses has been the number of careless mistakes. This carried forward in the Clippers’ 10-point loss to Philadelphia as they posted 18 turnovers.
Moreover, outside of Powell, the bench unit will struggle significantly as the play-making point guard, John Wall is set to miss a minimum of two weeks due to an abdominal injury. These constant health issues are what’s hiding the Clippers’ potential behind closed doors. A clean injury report is seldom for Lue and his squad and is showing no signs of improvement.
That said, the coaching staff will have to review their errors and build for the games ahead. The team’s age may also have a factor in winning games, as the Clippers usually start off slow before picking up the pace late in the game. This makes the trade deadline much more critical, as a young star would propel the team’s championship ceiling.
Despite the defeat, the LA Clippers must keep their eyes set on the games ahead as they take on the Jazz through the back-to-back. A loss to Utah would not only have the Clippers below .500 but also in the mix of the play-in tournament. This game could go down as one of the biggest match-ups of the year for Lue and his squad.