When Clipper Nation was notified that Chris Paul was reunited with his friends, family, and the team that had missed him deeply since he left, fans immediately began comparing LA's starting lineup and bench units to those around the league. This is a common reaction, as Paul signed just after Bradley Beal and the trade for John Collins.
Furthermore, the projected lineup has always been based on talent, experience, and what the fans know from Lawrence Frank and Tyronn Lue. Thus, Frank made it clear Paul's minutes would fluctuate, and Lue emphasized Beal being a good defender, indirectly implying an expanded role.
With this information, fans have concluded that the day one starting lineup against the Utah Jazz will consist of a backcourt of James Harden and Bradley Beal, the small forward spot going to Kawhi Leonard, and the frontcourt containing John Collins and Ivica Zubac.
This makes the most sense, with everything taken into consideration, but one aspect is completely left out in this prediction, and it could lead to Tyronn Lue going with a different approach to start the season.
Tyronn Lue may choose Kris Dunn to start in the backcourt with James Harden
The LA Clippers' frontcourt is likely set with John Collins and Ivica Zubac, and with Kawhi Leonard needed in the starting rotation, as the three-man, Tyronn Lue's only decision comes down to the guard taking minutes next to James Harden.
The initial guess from the fans' point of view is Bradley Beal, and this is purely rooted in recent events and his resume. Conversely, if he starts, the Clippers will be missing a point guard in Kris Dunn, who began 58 games last season.
Beal's offensive burst will help, no doubt, but the Clippers' scheme will favor scoring more than defense with Dunn on the bench, and that will create room for unwanted losses against the best teams, who are elite in both.
Choosing Dunn over Beal is the right decision, as it will balance out the starting rotation and give LA a guaranteed finalist for Sixth Man of the Year if he stays healthy.
There may be concerns about his three-point shooting, and Lue will most likely not be playing Dunn 30 minutes each night. Yet, it is simply vital to get going with him on the court because of his biggest strength, and that is racking up steals and causing havoc through his deflection count.