It has been a topsy turvy season for the Los Angeles Clippers as they desperately needed a break after their three-game losing streak. One way or another they got the break due to the All-Star match. However since returning they have won their first match but then did not show up against the Pelicans, losing 135-115.
This win has left a long-lasting impression on them as they have lost before but they have not lost this way in the presence of both their stars, Paul George and Kawhi Leonard. The Clippers defence had no answer to the Pelicans onslaught as they shot 65% being the 11th seed team in the West.
During the post-match press conference, Leonard was evidently frustrated as he addressed the issues of his team. He said, “It’s very concerning. If we want to have a chance at anything, you gotta be consistent. That’s what the great teams do, they’re consistent. They have nights when the energy is not there, but it’s all about consistency.”
The main issue with the Clippers has been their defence and without Patrick Beverley, they have struggled in that area. A lot of critics believe that with Beverley the Clippers will look like a solid unit. However, they can’t just be a one-man show in defence and getaway. Therefore Tyronn Lue will have to look at the issues very closely and would like to make those tweaks so that the Clippers can pull off a much better performance in their next match.
Considering the pride the Clippers have in their defence, their team has not performed that way this season and they have only themselves to blame. The star players need to step up as they just simply can’t allow a team who are not even in playoffs spots right now to score many points from the field.
Apart from the defensive side of things, Kawhi Leonard has also struggled in this match with his scoring. The 29-year-old small forward could only manage to take only 13 shots throughout the game. He ended the match with 23 which was the team’s highest but still failed to take control of the game when needed. The Clippers are currently in fourth position in the Western Conference and will look to
