The Los Angeles Clippers have looked unstoppable recently, winning their ninth consecutive game last night against the Dallas Mavericks. They’re re-establishing themselves as a top-six team and looking like title threats primarily because of how James Harden has reshaped their offense.
Clippers head coach Tyronn Lue opened up on James Harden’s impact on the team, discussing how easy he has made the offense for Kawhi Leonard and Paul George.
”So, that’s good for us in the long haul going down a stretch and he’s not playing 82 games [where] we’re getting beat up every single night. And so that’s the great thing about having James. For them, getting easier shots, open 3s. Before in the past, they had to take every shot. They had to create every shot.”
Over the last 10 games, the team is shooting over 40% from three, primarily due to the playmaking ability of Harden. His numbers look modest compared to what we know he can do, but he’s found a way to fit into the Clippers by making Kawhi and Paul George look like scoring machines.
Harden is averaging 17.1 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 7.7 assists on the season, not wowing anyone with his numbers. However, his impact has been unquestionable as the Clippers have found a rhythm that validates why they put together their big four. Russell Westbrook has faded into the bench, but just Harden, Kawhi, and George look dangerous enough to be a contender in the NBA.
How Does Russell Westbrook Fit In?
Westbrook was expected to rehabilitate his career on the Clippers after a strong stretch with the franchise last season. They brought him back for the minimum and it could’ve been one of the best-value contracts for a starter in the league. But there was no way for the Clippers to have success starting both Harden and Westbrook after they acquired James a week into the regular season.
Russ sacrificed and volunteered to come off the bench after the Clippers lost five games in a row to start their new era. Now, they’re 12-3 over their last 15 games, validating Russ’s sacrifice. He recently opened up on the importance of sacrifice to win a title.
“I’ve been in the league so long, I understand the definition of true sacrifice and understanding what that looks like. Sometimes it might not be how you want it, but if it’s for the betterment of the team, that’s the most important part. This is a team game, and I know the most important goal – that’s to win a championship.”
Westbrook is averaging 11.1 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 4.7 assists this season. His contributions aren’t as impactful now that the Clippers have a point guard like Harden, but Russ has been solid in the minutes he plays. It’s a weapon to have a mind like Russ on the bench for the minimum, as on-court expectations stay low and the team gets to benefit from his presence and IQ.
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