NBA Power Rankings week 16: OKC Thunder and teams post deadline
77. . 37-16. Previous: 5th. Los Angeles Clippers. 5. team
LA Clippers:
Offense: (112.5) 6th
Defense: (106.4) 6th
Net: (plus +6.1) 5th
Results Week 16: (3-1) Won vs. Spurs: 108-105, Heat: 128-111, Cavaliers: 133-92, Lost vs. Wolves: 115-142
Games Week 17: (2 games) Tues at 76ers | Thurs at Celtics
Having heard Kawhi Leonard repeatedly say all last year that the regular season was simply a warm-up or practice for the postseason it’s understandable why his mindset is what it is. BUT — look back at last season and the big difference between the Raptors and Clippers is Toronto didn’t lose to sub-par teams like LA does.
Perhaps the players on the Clippers believe they can simply flip a switch but at some point, you would think Doc Rivers or others would recognize these games against the lower tier are perfect opportunities to build momentum and make necessary tweaks.
Two other factors stand out. First, Paul George can’t seem to stay healthy and on the court which has to be concerning. Second – with far more injuries to deal with all season the Raptors have a better record than the Clippers.
I keep hoping a journalist will ask Kawhi if he ever thinks maybe he chose the wrong team to sign with this summer! It’s just one of those burning questions that likely won’t ever get asked or honestly answered. That doesn’t mean inquiring minds don’t want that question answered!