In their recent contest, the LA Clippers were sent home on a 23-point loss to the Denver Nuggets. Though the game was winnable, there was no burst from the moments of tipoff, causing head coach Tyronn Lue to fall behind on the road. Denver repeatedly applied pressure and soon had the Clippers gasping for air.
Moreover, Lue’s game plan was exceptionally crafted, but the former MVP, James Harden, failed in the act of execution. He finished with 16 points, four assists, and five turnovers in 27 minutes. His field goal percentages are worth noting, as Harden shot 5-15 from the field and just 2-8 from a distance.
However, three-level threat Norman Powell showed up ready to hand out buckets. He did so perfectly with 30 points in 28 minutes. Despite the loss, Powell demonstrated why he deserves a selection into the all-star cut.
The unfortunate news of franchise superstar Kawhi Leonard likely shifted Lue’s scheme in an unwanted direction. After his first two games, Leonard was forced to miss the brawl with Denver due to wildfires that affected his family. He is expected to return on Monday, January 13th, against the Miami Heat.
Although Leonard was the only player ruled out, the tragic chain of events could have impacted several others. This may have influenced the mindset of the active roster, essentially preventing them from winning in Denver.
Executives in the G-League and NBA delayed numerous games due to the wildfires. Not only do players and staff members need time personally, but it is unsafe to travel amid disaster.
Furthermore, the NBA recently announced the postponement of the Clippers’ first matchup with Charlotte this season.
The NBA released a statement regarding the Clippers' first meeting with Charlotte under the Intuit Dome.
Per Joey Linn of Sports Illustrated, the NBA has postponed the January 10th face-off between the LA Clippers and Charlotte Hornets. This is the correct decision, as the safety of players, coaches, and fans is most important.
The NBA has postponed the Clippers vs. Hornets game tomorrow at Intuit Dome. pic.twitter.com/SEuQ4P2uxd
— Joey Linn (@joeylinn_) January 11, 2025
Additionally, the NBA and NBPA have agreed to donate one million dollars to support the American Red Cross, World Central Kitchen, and other organizations that could help those involved.
That said, the NBA will release updates later in the season, and tickets will be fulfilled upon the revised dates. This gives the Clippers until Monday before they host the Miami Heat. In addition, next week’s games will continue as planned unless stated otherwise.