The Los Angeles Clippers, once known as the "Big Three" team, had fans worried after Paul George's departure to Philadelphia. However, under the leadership of James Harden, they have been playing exceptionally well. Despite a slight stumble at the beginning of the new year, they remain in the top eight in the West and are solid contenders for the playoffs.
In a recent game against the Atlanta Hawks, the Clippers showcased their prowess with a resounding victory. The offense flowed seamlessly, and the defense was impenetrable, leaving the Hawks overwhelmed. Notably, the Clippers scored an impressive 45 points in the second quarter, effectively turning the game into a blowout.
Harden, in particular, stood out with his uncharacteristic playstyle. He focused solely on assisting his teammates, with almost no desire to score himself. Out of nine shots, he only scored 10 points but managed to rack up an astonishing 15 assists, truly embodying the title of "Assist King."
Kawhi Leonard, making his season debut, also made a significant impact. Though his statistics were not explosive (12 points, 3 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal), his presence on the court created ample space for his teammates to operate. Players like Powell and Zubac thrived, scoring 20 and 18 points respectively, with Zubac also grabbing 18 rebounds.
Despite Trae Young's double-double performance with 20 points and 14 assists, the Hawks could not overcome the Clippers' formidable defense. With the win, the Clippers demonstrated their potential and the return of Leonard has bolstered their lineup, making their goal of winning the championship more tangible.
The Clippers will face tough challenges ahead with upcoming games against the Timberwolves and Nuggets, but if they maintain their current form and continue to play as a cohesive unit, they are expected to make waves in the Western Conference. Fans are excited to see what the future holds for the Clippers, especially with the dynamic duo of Leonard and Harden leading the charge.