Following several moves at the trade deadline, the LA Clippers have improved significantly. Their need for another center has vanished, along with their age and explosiveness at the point guard position. While the front office is still working to solidify the roster, the championship puzzle is closing.
That said, acquiring the complete offensive game of Mason Plumlee was a game-changer for LA. His scoring and passing will play a significant role in the playoffs, especially when Ivica Zubac needs a rest. This also leaves room for head coach Tyronn Lue to utilize the small-ball lineup.
Moreover, one thing to keep an eye on when the new additions step on the court is the number of minutes they play. The LA Clippers still have a ridiculous amount of depth, which may leave multiple quality pieces out of the rotation.
Are any of the Clippers’ new acquisitions playing against Milwaukee?
Along with the superstar talents of Kawhi Leonard(injury management), the LA Clippers will be without Bones Hyland, Eric Gordon, and Mason Plumlee. This is because they are finding their way to LA after being traded not too long ago.
The Clippers say Kawhi Leonard (right knee injury management), Bones Hyland, Mason Plumlee and Eric Gordon will not play tomorrow vs. Milwaukee. The traded players are still making their way to the team.
— Andrew Greif (@AndrewGreif) February 10, 2023
Furthermore, one component fans will be looking forward to is the updated starting lineup. There are plenty of ways Lue and the coaching staff can approach this decision, and it may take some experimenting before the rough draft is finalized.
That said, there is a good chance these additions will be able to play in their debut against the Golden State Warriors. Each of the Clippers’ next two games will be prominent, as they will display how much the team improved from the trade deadline.