Following a motivating win against the Warriors, the LA Clippers shined again on the road over the Phoenix Suns. This was an excellent victory for various reasons, one of which is that the Clippers stand by themselves as the fourth seed in the Western Conference. This changes momentum and allows the coaching staff to evaluate where the team needs to improve.
Moreover, franchise superstar Paul George showed out on both ends of the floor, guiding his team to the win. George capped his 36 minutes with 26 points, six rebounds, and five assists on four made three-pointers. This was a performance waiting to happen, as George has been highly inconsistent in scoring the ball.
However, this win was only possible with the two-way dominance of Terance Mann. He outplayed both of the Suns’ All-Stars, helping uplift the LA Clippers without Norman Powell. Mann closed the night with 26 points, four rebounds, and three assists on 10-12 shooting.
Nights like this from Mann and George are precisely what the Clippers need as Kawhi Leonard struggled to find his shot. Head coach Tyronn Lue is utilizing his depth to the best of his ability, paying off in wins for the entire team.
The LA Clippers played all 48 minutes phenomenally and came out with the win.
Although the LA Clippers turned the ball over 14 times, they shot 48.8% from the field while also out-rebounding the Phoenix Suns. Though Mann and George made their presence felt, this was a team win as everyone contributed to their own capacity.
Furthermore, the interior big man, Ivica Zubac, arguably had the most impactful performance. On top of his 13 points and 12 rebounds, there were countless possessions where the opposing team’s guard attacked Zubac on the perimeter. He did an outstanding job by holding his ground, allowing the Clippers to get stops and score the ball.
MAMA THERE GOES THAT MANN pic.twitter.com/Md7mpFqg1m
— LA Clippers (@LAClippers) February 17, 2023
In addition, the newly acquired guard, Eric Gordon, also made an impact with 13 points, seven assists, and zero turnovers. He also did a great job defensively, especially considering that the Clippers were without their leading bench scorer.
That said, the LA Clippers receive an extended resting period before they take on the Sacramento Kings. If Lue and his squad can find a way to win, they will be creeping up on the third seed in the Western Conference. Additionally, the Clippers should have a healthy roster once the All-Star break is finally over.