Even with the LA Clippers off to a good start for the 2020-21 season they were still looking for their identity. It looks like they found it. With a record of 13-5, the third best record in the NBA, they look like a title contender despite their recent problems with COVID-19. The Clippers rest in third place in the Western Conference trailing the other team that pays rent at Staples Center, the Lakers (14-4) and the surprising Utah Jazz.
The Clippers are finding a way to pass the ball more than last years' team on the offensive side. The extra pass is opening up a better shot selection for whoever is on the court. They have been averaging 25.2 assist per game that has led to 48.7% shooting from the field and 44% from behind the arc leading the NBA in 3's. Last season they only shot 46.6% from the field and 34.9% from behind the arc.
"We're just locked in and we're together," said Paul George, "We like where we're at and like where we're headed, and we want to see this thing play all the way through."
The change at the top with Tyronn Lue as the Clippers new head coach has been a move that owner Steve Balmer should be pleased with. We have seen plenty of good Clipper teams not reached their full potential so we really have to watch this team through the regular season. The true test will come later when the lights get brighter and the pressure goes up in the playoffs.
The team is led by the Kawhi Leonard as the quiet leader in the locker room leaving most of his talking on the court with his production. He's No.2 in the NBA in steals and he is one of the top scorers in the league.
The Clippers are on pace to have best 3-point shooting percentage in NBA, beating the Golden state Warriors Splash Brothers mark set by Seth Curry and Clay Thompson.
"Everyone is passing the ball and we are having fun," said Clippers Center Ivica Zubac.
The Clippers are currently on the road against the Magic on Friday at 4 p.m., Sunday at 10 a.m. they are in New York to face former Laker Julius Randle and Tuesday they battle the Nets and their three superstars, Kevin Durant, James Harden and Kyrie Irving at 4:30 p.m.
Reader Comments(0)