In previous years, the Los Angeles Clippers have always faltered when it came to performing against the very best, preventing them from reaching the Western Conference Finals each time. A few important details over the summer have meant that this year, however, the Clippers seem stronger than ever, and ready to play deep into the postseason.
Clippers Looking Strong Heading Into Home Stretch
The main trigger for this recent success is undeniably Blake Griffin. If you had asked me my opinion on the Clippers’ power forward six months ago, my response would have accused him of using his highlight dunks to make people ignore how inefficient and lazy the young All-Star was. Was. I hate to admit this, but Blake Griffin has proven me wrong. He still has the pleasant highlight reel aspect of his game, but he has added many new aspects to his game that now make him one of the best players in this league. Obviously, his average of 24.3 points per game speaks for itself, but what really impresses me is his increase in rebounding, clearly outlining how much more effort and hustle has been added to his game. A very solid 54% shooting from the field make him one of the best scoring players in the NBA. The future has opened up for the 24-year-old, who still has areas of potential growth. For example, his shot blocking (only 0.57 blocks per game) and his mid-range jump shot, which still needs some extra polishing. This, in my opinion, means that in a few years Blake Griffin could be a serious contender for MVP.
Like always, it isn’t only one player that makes a team great. As the Clippers are currently sitting at fourth in the West, only three games behind second place, it is hugely thanks to Chris Paul. This comes as no surprise. The 28-year-old is a perfect example of sustained excellence, ruthless efficiency and staggering brilliance. Though a recent injury is the only dark spot in his season, his game averages portray how incredible this player is: 19 points, over 11 assists, and only 2.4 turnovers. But stats don’t do the Point Guard from North Carolina justice; his control over the Clippers’ game is beautiful to watch, like a conductor leading his orchestra, only here the end result is not a symphony, it’s a stunning alley-oop. He may not be the one who finishes at the rim, but no one would call it Lob City if it wasn’t for CP3.
What I like about the Clippers this year is that they have managed to acquire perfect balance. Everyone has a role, but they can count on different players to provide the spark every game. A prime example was in their win Sunday night against Oklahoma City, where Jamal Crawford and Matt Barnes led the team in scoring (36 and 24 points respectively), whilst Blake Griffin was struggling from the field (6/15 from the field). Chris Paul had hurt his thumb, consequently reducing his impact on the game. DeAndre Jordan continued his ridiculously efficient season (leads the NBA in FG%), shooting 6/6 from the field and grabbing 12 rebounds. Despite their two all-stars not performing at their best, Los Angeles still managed to earn a road win against one of the best teams in the NBA despite Kevin Durant scoring 42 points. This is the type of win that shows real character and quality.
Led by the experienced Doc Rivers, the Clippers keep getting better as the season progresses, and the problem of inconsistency is starting to fade.
However, despite the big win over the Thunder, a big problem for this side is still their performance away from The Staples Center, as they are just 15-15 on the road. In that way, there are still areas that the Clippers need to improve before they can be called an elite team in the NBA. It is clear to me that they are a team making those adjustments and one who will continue to progress. By the time we get to this year’s NBA Playoffs, I believe that the Clippers will be ready to make a big run.
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