The recent performance of the Clippers has been quite disappointing, especially in their match against the Minnesota Timberwolves, which felt like hitting a "reset" button. Previously, the Clippers were banking on the return of "championship forward" Kawhi Leonard, hoping to rally and secure a winning streak.
However, they unexpectedly suffered another "shutout" defeat against the Timberwolves, not only losing but also setting an embarrassing record of 2 wins and 8 losses against them! This has become a thorn in the Clippers' side, with the Timberwolves firmly established as their "top rival." Every time they face the Timberwolves, it's like hitting steel with a hammer, getting pushed back hard.
Despite this, the Clippers' performance had its bright spots, particularly with Kawhi Leonard's return, seemingly elevating the team to a new level. Unfortunately, Leonard's performance did not meet expectations; in the game, he played for 20 minutes, shooting 3 out of 11 attempts, making 2 out of 5 three-pointers, scoring 8 points, 2 rebounds, and 2 assists, with a poor plus-minus rating.
This game was almost a reversal of the script for "Kawhi Leonard's comeback." With seven minutes left in the third quarter, the coaching staff decisively substituted him out, not because he didn't want to play, but to prevent further injury, as no one wants to see him plagued by injuries again.
Coach Tyronn Lue revealed in an interview that Kawhi Leonard's playing time upon his return is strictly limited to 20 minutes, regardless of whether the team is leading or trailing. Once the 20 minutes are up, he will immediately rest. This is clearly to protect him from overloading and avoid injuries.
Meanwhile, the Clippers' "top rival," the Minnesota Timberwolves, seems to be getting stronger. In this game, several Timberwolves players shone, especially Edwards, Conley, and Gobert's coordination, making the Clippers' defense helpless. Especially Edwards, who acts like a "time bomb," ready to explode at any moment, giving the Clippers a taste of the buzzer-beater.
It's not surprising that Kawhi Leonard couldn't overcome the Timberwolves, as the Clippers didn't have much advantage in this game. Speaking of "trades," Ballmer is truly "as hard as stone" this time. In terms of lineup adjustments, he doesn't seem to plan to follow external suggestions to trade Bradley Beal.
This superstar with a salary of $50.2 million has long been rumored to want to join the Clippers, but Ballmer's stance is clear: "No rush, we have James Harden, Powell, and Leonard, it's enough, no need to stir things up." Indeed, the Clippers already have a strong lineup, with excellent performances from key players on both offense and defense, especially Harden and Powell, whose cooperation shows good chemistry.
Add Leonard, the "veteran," and the Clippers' overall strength becomes formidable. Therefore, Ballmer did not decide to bring Beal to the Clippers, as his salary alone makes the trade exceptionally complex. Beal's role in the Suns is not ideal; clearly, he hopes to find his place in a competitive team, but the Clippers are not willing to take the risk.
Considering that Beil may not fit well with Powell and Leonard, it's understandable why Ballmer is unwilling to make this trade. This also stabilizes the Clippers' lineup structure. Now, although the Clippers' performance is unpredictable and occasionally faces strong opponents like the Timberwolves, the core configuration still holds promise.
Perhaps Ballmer's firm attitude and Kawhi Leonard's "limited-time exit" strategy are the keys to the Clippers' steady progress. Regardless, the Clippers' upcoming schedule will be more intense, and they need significant adjustments to face challenges from strong teams.
Although Kawhi Leonard's return remains uncertain, as long as his health and form gradually recover, the Clippers still have considerable competitiveness. As for whether to make a trade, we can only wait for Ballmer's final decision.