Although going on a monumental 11-2 run in 13 games was surely a testament to the LA Clippers' determination in the face of adversity, the moment of truth, for which all the hard work and commitment have been dedicated, is tonight against the Toronto Raptors. It is Kawhi Leonard’s former team, so his mentality may be directed into dominating, but the ball is in the Clippers’ hands to score a win and enter the play-in tournament.
In the Clippers’ facility, achieving the tenth seed before the All-Star break is impressive for more than its contention implications. The seeding demonstrates historical progression that deserves a round of applause from the entire world.
LA was doubted, laughed at, and left to hang dry in a scorching hot desert, yet Tyronn Lue led a group of true professionals this far, and it is time to capitalize on the wait and end with a meaningful win on the Raptors’ home floor.
The Raptors will be using their talons on defense to triumph over the Clippers
The one with their hands full tonight, if he plays following a questionable status, will be Kawhi Leonard. The Toronto Raptors are known to go out on a limb to contain him, forcing a 48-minute challenge-packed contest on Leonard’s shoulders.
Tyronn Lue had to trust Ivica Zubac and Kevin Porter Jr. in the most recent Clippers-Raptors battle, as Leonard only scored 14 points, shooting 33.3% from the field, with four turnovers.
Moreover, head coach Darko Rajaković leads one of the best teams in the NBA this season. While Scottie Barnes and Brandon Ingram are the highlights of Rajaković’s offense, the team’s defense is why they are the fourth seed.
In fact, the Raptors are allowing opponents to score only 112.1 points. This has been done on the largest sample size in the Eastern Conference of 42 games, proving Rajaković’s defensive scheme to be legitimate.
Thus, the role players must grab possession of the baton from Leonard and James Harden and win the biggest game of the season. John Collins has been on a hot streak, but Kris Dunn, Kobe Sanders, and Nicolas Batum will have to join in.
If the Clippers fall short, the chance to notch the tenth seed for the time being may extend into next week. Yet, if the door is open to move up, LA must command Scotiabank Arena and walk out in a celebratory mood, knowing their turnaround is going well.