One of the reasons why the LA Clippers have remained in the Western Conference top six is due to an exceptional level of leadership behind the scenes. The veterans throughout the roster have provided the staff, in team meetings, with their equation to winning games.
Additionally, the coaches have done wonders off the court. Head coach Tyronn Lue has combined his experience as a two-time champion with those of stars Kawhi Leonard and James Harden to construct a blueprint that elevates their floor in the modern era.
Moreover, their formula thus far has been built around the defensive side of the ball. Every night, each player seems passionate about defending the basketball, forcing an error, and scoring a quick bucket favoring the Clippers.
This has been the memo all year, and executive Lawrence Frank hoped for this when spending money during the offseason.
Moreover, the Clippers’ secret weapon, Jeff Van Gundy, has yet to be exposed. He was signed solely to enhance the defensive side of the ball and has exceeded the hype since he was signed.
The players tend to receive flowers for their defensive success, but it all begins with Van Gundy holding the clipboard.
LA Clippers assistant coach Jeff Van Gundy has consistently made opposing superstars seem nonexistent.
Through every second until the fourth quarter ends, Jeff Van Gundy ensures the LA Clippers show no mercy on the defensive side of the court. His strategy is no secret, as the former head coach understands how to stretch the perimeter effectively.
Furthermore, Van Gundy loves to suffocate the league’s top superstars with traps and double-teams. Although this has been a common strategy for decades, the Clippers have the talent to execute at a higher capacity.
With the length of defensive-minded players like Kawhi Leonard, Kris Dunn, and Derrick Jones Jr., opposing stars find it hard to navigate against LA, which provokes poor decisions and shot-clock violations.
The Clippers’ recent contest with Boston is a great example, as two-way stars Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown totaled 10 turnovers with a combined 17-37 shooting.
Against the Lakers, three days before, NBA greats LeBron James and Anthony Davis posted eight turnovers and shot 14-34 from the floor.
Along with countless other instances throughout the season, Van Gundy has schemed meticulously against the NBA’s best. He has been fantastic all year and is a primary reason the Clippers have succeeded.