In the fiercely competitive Western Conference, it is very difficult to compete. So when the new season just started and all fans heard that Leonard would be indefinitely sidelined, the Clippers were not favored. Many fans thought that the Clippers might find it difficult to make the playoffs. However, Harden has created a surprise for the fans, bringing them hope.
After Leonard's injury, Harden took the lead by taking charge of both the offensive and organizational ends. Compared to last season, his average score this season has significantly increased, enhancing his offensive aggressiveness and playing the role of an absolute leader. Under his leadership, the Clippers' overall record has exceeded many fans' expectations. Currently, they are in seventh place in the West, but their win difference with the sixth and fifth places in the West is consistent, and they can rise to fifth at any time, which is a relatively safe range.
The Clippers' outstanding performance this season does not solely credit Harden. Powell's role is no less important than Harden's. In fact, Powell has become the team's top scorer, surpassing Harden in average points and with better overall shooting efficiency. Powell has now scored 28+ points in four consecutive games. This season, he averages 24 points with a three-point shooting percentage as high as 47%, truly reaching the peak of his career.
Many people think that Powell's peak came a bit too late, as he is already 31 years old. The team did not pay enough attention to his use or elevate his tactical status before. In fact, several years ago, he was already capable of leading a team, but his abilities were overshadowed by the star-studded Clippers. Powell's outstanding performance is equivalent to the Clippers gaining another giant. This season, Powell's performance is even stronger than Paul George's, so the current Clippers can be said to have a trio of Leonard, Harden, and Powell. When their lineup is complete, they still have the potential to become a Western Conference Finals team.
Now, what Clippers fans are eagerly awaiting is Leonard's return. If Leonard can stay healthy after his return, the Clippers' ceiling this year will be very high. Because Leonard is the player who determines the team's ceiling, and during critical moments, his ability to make key shots can help the team reach new heights. This season, the Clippers have a clear and reasonable division of labor, with Harden as the organizer and Powell as the scorer. They also have many defensive forwards, such as Dunn and Little Jones, including Zubac, who has made significant improvements this year. Therefore, the Clippers' lineup configuration is impeccable, and they are undoubtedly a team to watch in the West.