The Clippers are determined this season to secure a spot among the top six in the Western Conference playoffs. Currently, the top three spots are firmly held by the Thunder, Rockets, and Grizzlies, with intense competition for the fourth, fifth, and sixth positions. The Clippers are not backing down, especially after Leonard's return, setting their sights on the top four in the West, which is quite exciting!
Leonard's return is a significant event for the Clippers. This superstar's defensive capabilities have always been consistent, like a solid line of defense that makes it hard for opponents to break through. However, his offensive performance since returning has been somewhat concerning, with a shooting percentage of only 10 out of 31 attempts, which isn't great. But don't worry too much; he's just returned and needs time to adjust. Coach Tyronn Lue also mentioned that Leonard is expected to have his minutes restriction lifted in February, at which point he'll be able to play more freely. Harden expressed in an interview that Leonard is working hard to recover, and we need to give him some patience. I believe that once Leonard regains his offensive touch, the Clippers' strength will definitely reach new heights.
While Leonard's state hasn't fully recovered, Harden has taken up the mantle for the Clippers. Averaging 21.5 points, 6 rebounds, 8 assists, and 1.4 steals per game this season, his career regular-season total points have reached 26,660, just a little short of surpassing Dominique Wilkins for 15th place in history. Not only is Harden great at scoring, but his organizational skills are exceptional as well. He has twice scored over 20 points in a quarter, twice over 30 in a half, and twice over 40 in three quarters, ranking first in the league. In the game against the Heat, Harden shot 9 out of 17, scoring 26 points, 5 rebounds, 11 assists, 2 steals, and 1 block, leading the team to victory. More importantly, his passes allowed Zubac and Powell to score efficiently, with their scoring states skyrocketing. It can be said that Harden is now the core engine of the Clippers, ensuring the team's offense when he's on the court.
Speaking of Zubac, he's truly impressive! In the game against the Heat, Zubac shot 10 out of 13, scoring an astonishing 21 points, 20 rebounds, 1 assist, and 2 blocks. His performance was simply stunning. This season, he averages 15.1 points, 12.7 rebounds (third in the league), 2.5 assists, and 1.3 blocks, all career highs. According to NBA data experts, Zubac's single-game stats of 20 points, 20 rebounds, and 2 blocks with zero fouls and over 60% shooting efficiency were last achieved by the Spurs' superstar Tim Duncan! Zubac's inside-out pick-and-roll tactics with Harden are consistently effective, making the Heat's zone defense ineffective. No wonder fans say that Harden is a blue-collar center's lucky star; meeting Harden, Zubac has become the new "Bread King" "Zunir," and he has become the most important pillar of the Clippers' interior. With him guarding the paint, the Clippers' rebounding and defense are greatly secured.
The Clippers' defense this season has been outstanding, with 11 games where they've held opponents to under 100 points, during which they've had a record of 10 wins and 1 loss. In the game against the Heat, they once again limited the Heat's total score to below 100 points, ultimately defeating them convincingly. The Clippers' defense is like an impenetrable wall, making it hard for opponents to break through. Their defense isn't reliant on any one player but is the result of the whole team's efforts. From guards to forwards to centers, everyone contributes positively on the defensive end. It's because of this excellent defense that the Clippers can take control in games and win victories.
The Clippers' performance this season has its ups and downs, but overall, it's still full of hope. Leonard's return, Harden's outstanding play, Zubac's rise, and the team's excellent defense are all advantages for the Clippers. However, they also face challenges, such as Leonard's state recovery, injury issues, and the fierce competitive environment in the West. But I believe that as long as the Clippers unite and continue to leverage their strengths while overcoming difficulties, they will surely secure a spot among the top six in the Western Conference playoffs and may even challenge for the top four.