Although Brandon Ingram, a recently acquired two-time All-Star from the Toronto Raptors, can contribute in various areas on both ends of the court, he’s certainly most effective in the scoring department. He was acquired to be the LA Clippers’ first/second option, given the fact that he’s averaged 20+ points for seven consecutive seasons. However, with him still recovering from an undisclosed partially torn Achilles that was revealed during the Clippers’ media day, head coach Tyronn Lue doesn’t have another established bucket-getter next to Darius Garland.
The next best option is Rui Hachimura. While he’s good and showed his potential in the preseason opener, the following game against the Toronto Raptors told a different story, hinting the Clippers may struggle to score until Ingram returns. In 19 minutes, Hachimura scored 14 points but shot 37.5% from the field and turned the ball over three times.
This is certainly not a good look, and it’s not like the Clippers can do anything about it with such little time left before the regular season begins.
The Clippers don’t have a true 2nd option on the team
It shouldn't be twisted: Rui Hachimura is an excellent basketball player who knows how to put the ball through the net. But, as we’ve seen in years prior, Hachimura is best as a spot-up shooter, not as a shot creator. For context, he’s never averaged 14 points in his career, which speaks volumes.
If the Clippers were healthy, Bradley Beal would probably be the guy the coaching staff may look to step into the scoring role of Brandon Ingram for the time being. He’s experienced, has a proven track record, and thrives with the ball in his hands.
Unfortunately, as revealed at media day, Beal is dealing with knee inflammation and may not be ready to start the season, like Ingram.
That said, unless Hachimura, Derrick Jones Jr., or Keaton Wagler starts off the year consistently putting up 20 or more points, the Clippers will certainly have a scoring problem on their hands.
There is no one on the team other than Darius Garland who can pick on a mismatch, get to his sweet spots, drive to the basket with ease, draw a foul, and hit a contested jumper, if need be, regularly.
That's why the Clippers need Ingram back on the court as soon as possible. He checks each of these boxes, relieving the scoring pressure off Garland’s shoulders.
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