On the ‘Game Over’ podcast with Max Kellerman, Rich Paul, basketball’s most highly regarded agent, briefly mentioned that opponents in the Western Conference do not want to face the LA Clippers in the first round. This is just about what fans of the Clippers expected, as the scariest sight in the league is a healthy Kawhi Leonard, who has led his team to one of the most dominant stretches in the league over the last few months.
In fact, since the start of the new year, the Clippers are in a three-way tie with the Charlotte Hornets and Cleveland Cavaliers for the most wins in the NBA with 28. This figure is also the third-highest of teams in the West, which speaks volumes, considering the postseason is right around the corner.
That said, the Clippers are looked at as the opponent to avoid at all costs. They haven’t done much in recent years, but something about this season screams that a deep run is ahead.
The Clippers' strengths on both sides of the ball are why they are feared
Based on the Western Conference standings, the LA Clippers currently sit at eighth, just a game and a half ahead of the ninth-seeded Portland Trail Blazers. This spot alone shows no signs of a team that should be considered a nightmare matchup.
However, the Clippers are to be dreaded at every angle. They have the perfect formula for a superstar, Kawhi Leonard, who is as great as they come on the biggest stage, plus consistent, quality help that can translate success into the playoffs.
This was found later in the season, particularly after the trade deadline, regarding Darius Garland’s pairing, suggesting that their current record, which consists of 36 losses, has extensive context that could easily be overlooked.
Not to mention that the head coach and lead assistant, Tyronn Lue and Jeff Van Gundy, have already proven themselves as an elite one-two punch with some of the most brilliant minds in the NBA.
These are just a few of their strengths; many others exist, such as one of the world’s best sixth men, a youth with so much pop, and experience throughout the roster.
So, the West must remain under the impression to beware of the Clippers. They are as legit as they seem, and as everyone knows, a healthy Kawhi Leonard usually means nothing aside from greatness.