Led by franchise stars James Harden, Norman Powell, and Ivica Zubac, the LA Clippers complete their road trip with a 114-110 win against the Memphis Grizzlies. Although the Clippers’ trio dominated Memphis, head coach Tyronn Lue deserves credit for drawing an exceptional game plan.
Moreover, Zubac, the player of the game, posted 20 points, 20 rebounds, and three steals on ten made field goals. Additionally, Lue noticed that the backup center, Mo Bamba, was struggling and pivoted toward the Croatian star by playing him a season-high in minutes (40).
Throughout the night, the Grizzlies answered nearly every push from the Clippers. They continued to score on all three levels, make plays at a high capacity, and defend with all their might, making victory much tougher for Lue and his staff.
Winning in Memphis was crucial for the Clippers, as many hoped for just one win on their road trip. Instead, they came out with two, keeping their hopes of attaining a high seed alive until superstar Kawhi Leonard makes his return.
The LA Clippers showed up and showed out against the formidable Memphis Grizzlies.
Although Ivica Zubac added to his list of remarkable performances, he was not alone for the LA Clippers. Former MVP James Harden came alive in the clutch, and the veteran guard Norman Powell posted another efficient showcase.
Harden ended the night with 21 points, nine assists, and eight rebounds in 36 minutes of playing time. These numbers may not seem extravagant, but the box scores fail to mention the seven straight points that guide the Clippers during crunch time.
Furthermore, Powell, as the Clippers’ leading scorer, had 29 points and three rebounds, shooting 50% from the field and beyond the arc. He was also phenomenal late in the fourth as he knocked down a mid-range jumper for the lead and made both free throws to seal the victory.
Conversely, the Clippers won the game with their defensive quickness and versatility. Although Memphis had five players score double figures, they shot extremely poorly and committed 19 turnovers. This dwindles to Lue’s scheme and how he orchestrates a sustainable two-way game plan.
Following a four-day break, the Clippers take on the Warriors with confidence in winning the season series. This is usually a showdown, as Golden State employs one of the league’s most prominent icons. If Kawhi Leonard returns to action, Lue will be favored to secure win number 18. However, a loss would cause LA to fall in a close Western Conference.