Los Angeles Clippers: the last run for Tyronn Lue’s veterans
With the highest average age in the league, plenty of talent, and a defense still taking shape, Tyronn Lue’s Clippers are searching for the right balance to stay competitive in the West
Despite an ongoing investigation that could sanction the Clippers and their owner Steve Ballmer – accused of circumventing the Salary Cap by using a company he funded to pay him a substantial sponsorship amount – the team has taken the court this preseason and shown positive signs, especially in light of summer changes.
For those who might have forgotten, through trades and free agency:
- Scorer Bradley Beal, released by the Suns and a potential second/third offensive option behind Leonard
- Veteran Chris Paul, to give Harden some rest at point guard
- Dynamic power forward with range John Collins, coming from Utah
- Center Brook Lopez, who will offer an alternative inside presence to the excellent Zubac
Even considering a tune-up game against the Guangzhou Loon Lions – far from challenging, even though they fielded two former NBA players like Victor Oladipo and Frank Kaminsky – some key themes in coach Lue’s setup have emerged.
Clippers’ Defensive Balance
The team can be defensively aggressive, using specialists like Dunn, the savvy Batum, and a veteran rim protector like Lopez. They can also add versatility and athleticism with Jones Jr. and Collins. It will be important to set up in a balanced way, leveraging these strengths, and coach Lue should be able to adjust well, even during games – a skill for which he is highly regarded.
Experience and Pace Management
With an average age of 33.2 years, the Clippers’ roster is the oldest ever to start an NBA season. With Harden or Paul running the offense, Lue will likely favor slower tempos. Both Zubac and Lopez provide significant rim protection in set defenses. Winning the defensive rebound battle and limiting turnovers on offense will be key, allowing Leonard and Beal to isolate when needed, as an alternative to Harden and Paul’s pick-and-rolls.
Spacing and the Second Unit
With wings who can shoot from distance and two ball-handlers who can create off the dribble, it’s essential to attack with a spaced floor in set plays. This also maximizes Leonard’s isolation opportunities. Beal can be a great spacer, but especially in second-unit minutes, the threat from Bogdanovic will be crucial, particularly to make Dunn’s presence sustainable. Defensively excellent but inconsistent offensively.
While the investigation into the sponsorship deal is still ongoing, the team looks ready to play its hand in a Western Conference that seems more open than expected. Talent and experience aren’t lacking – but everything will depend on Lue’s ability to manage minutes, tempo, and defensive chemistry.
If the veterans can stay healthy and engaged, Los Angeles could truly emerge as a contender, both on the court and amid the surrounding noise