Before the recovery of franchise superstar Kawhi Leonard, the LA Clippers were aided by three all-star talents: James Harden, Norman Powell, and Ivica Zubac. They have all leaped in prominent ways this season, verifying to opposing contenders how scary they can be once Leonard makes a complete return in LA.
Moreover, Clipper Nation has been particularly adamant on the all-star campaigns of Powell and Zubac. Rightfully so, they have been of absurdly high value to the sixth-seeded Clippers(one game behind fourth).
Unfortunately, Clipper fans discovered the reality of how disrespected and underrated their stars were through the all-star returns. There was minimal hype surrounding Powell and Zubac, and it resulted in an undesirable outcome regarding their success.
Furthermore, the NBA released the all-star reserves today at 6:30 PM(ET), and it is safe to say some Clippers’ best players continue to draw disrespect. These results are unjustifiable and only motivate LA to dominate the rest of the year.
The LA Clippers have two snubs on the 2024-25 NBA All-Star roster.
Though the LA Clippers’ record in the Western Conference has come as a surprise, they were only credited with one all-star, James Harden, despite having three players worthy of a selection.
Harden, now an 11-time all-star, is the most reputable on the Clippers. Although his scoring numbers have decreased since his MVP season, he is averaging 21.7 points, 8.4 assists, and 5.8 rebounds in 44 games through 2024-25. This was a no-brainer for voters.
Conversely, Powell, who is the Clippers’ most deserving all-star, has consistently destroyed winning defenses. So far, he has posted 24.0 points and 3.6 rebounds, shooting 49.4% from the field and 43.5% from three-point land.
In fact, the former UCLA Bruin is averaging more points and shooting better three-point efficiencies than superstars LeBron James and Stephen Curry. This is mind-boggling, as James and Curry were selected as all-star starters.
The Clippers' most overlooked player is Zubac, who has been discussed minimally as a potential all-star this season. In 45 games, the seven-foot beast has stamped 15.2 points and 12.8 rebounds, shooting a field goal percentage of 61.0 on 11.1 attempts.
Additionally, Zubac has recorded five games with at least 20 points and 18 rebounds, which have all concluded in wins.
That said, with Kawhi Leonard in game shape, Powell and Zubac will be fueled by the disrespect as the season moves along. They will prove to the NBA world why they deserved the first all-star nod of their careers.