The Timberwolves and Thunder may be one and two in the West, but the Los Angeles Clippers aren’t too far behind right now at 24-13 on the season. Despite some doubt about their potential this season, many are starting to believe in their title chances and Celtics legend Paul Pierce is one of them. Speaking on ‘the KG Certified’ podcast, Pierce tagged the Clippers as title contenders in the West and recognized their place among the best of the best.
“We really seeing what the potential of this team can be. I know they ain’t won a championship together but I think all the pieces is lining up because if you extend Kawhi then you got to re-sign Paul George and then you got to see what you can do with Harden. Now you going full steam ahead with a team that looks to be a real championship contender and then moving forward you moving into a new arena.”
The Clippers championship window is NOW.
If healthy, do you think the Clippers win a title in the next three seasons?
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The Clippers got off to a rocky start after trading for James, but things have stabilized with him in the lineup. Now, the Clippers are just one game back from the third seed in the West with a record of 24-13.
The Harden Trade Is Working
James Harden has seemingly taken this Clippers team to another level. As good as they were before his arrival, James’ skills as a scorer and playmaker have really increased the potency of their offense. This season, the Clips rank 7th out of all 30 teams in that category and are scoring an average of 117.4 points per game. The team is 7-3 in their last 10 games and 16-4 at home, which currently ranks as the best in the West.
Haden himself has been on a tear this season, and his efficiency numbers are up across the board with averages of 17.3 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 8.4 assists per game on 46.3% shooting. If he keeps playing at this level, and the other stars can stay healthy throughout the season, this could be the year that the Clippers finally take a leap in the postseason. But until they go out and get it done, there will always be doubts about their potential.
Unanswered Questions For The Clips
At this point, there is no denying the talent level of the Clippers roster. With four stars (one of which recently signed an extension), a cast of capable role players, and one of the best coaches in the league, the odds are stacked in favor of the Clippers this season, now all that’s left to do is close the deal and take care of business. Historically, of course, this team has struggled in that area.
For years now, dating back to the first season with Kawhi and Paul George, the Clippers have fallen short in the postseason and many believe they are on track for a similar fate this season. But while both Harden and the Clippers franchise have a history of shaky playoff performances, their partnership looks like a match made in heaven and this could be their best chance yet at finally breaking the losing cycle. Right now, this team looks like a serious threat to make some noise and if the NBA legends are catching on, then it’s time for everyone to start taking them seriously.
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