(Grant Thomas/Yahoo Sports Illustration)
The 2024-25 NBA season has arrived! We are examining the major questions, potential scenarios, and fantasy implications for all 30 teams. Enjoy the read!
LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS
2023-24 Finish
Offseason Moves
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Additions: Derrick Jones Jr., Nicolas Batum, Kris Dunn, Kevin Porter Jr., Mo Bamba, Cameron Christie
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Departures: Paul George, Russell Westbrook, Mason Plumlee, Daniel Theis, Brandon Boston Jr.
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Complete Roster
The Big Question: Which Kawhi Leonard will they get?
Kawhi Leonard has not completed a playoff run with the Los Angeles Clippers since the 2020 season, which marked his inaugural year with the team when he was 28 years old and fresh off a second NBA Finals MVP award.
Reflecting on this, it’s impressive how adeptly the Toronto Raptors managed his injury during their 2019 championship run. Leonard joined the Raptors suffering from what the San Antonio Spurs referred to as “right quadriceps tendinopathy” — an affliction that limited him to just nine games in the 2017-18 season. He then tore his right ACL in the 2021 playoffs, consequently missing the entire 2021-22 season, and has struggled to maintain the health of his knee in both of the last two playoff seasons.
The impact of Leonard’s chronic knee problems on his career cannot be overstated. This has been an ongoing issue for eight years. When he is fit, Leonard is recognized as one of the greatest two-way wings in basketball history. His game is almost programmed for dominance at both ends of the court, accompanied by a personality that complements his talent. He has triumphed over LeBron James’ Miami Heat and Stephen Curry’s Golden State Warriors en route to securing two championships.
Yet, his “program” continues to falter. Currently, Leonard is not in optimal health. Inflammation in his surgically repaired right knee prevented him from participating in the Paris Olympics. Throughout training camp, the Clippers plan to manage the soreness in his knee, aiming for him to be ready for the season opener.
“We’re focused on staying healthy for those crucial moments,” Leonard stated during the media day.
However, those “crucial moments” might remain elusive if Leonard is unable to lead the Clippers. Paul George, who previously served as a safety net, has departed his hometown team to pursue a championship opportunity with the Philadelphia 76ers. This move could be interpreted as a lack of confidence in the Clippers’ ability to contend for a title.
The Clippers did acquire former MVP James Harden on a new two-year, $70 million deal. Now 35 years old, Harden has not been an All-Star for the past two seasons but maintains he’s still the same player, notwithstanding his fourth team in four years. For fans hoping he would take a backseat in the offense, Harden remarked to reporters, as noted by The Washington Post’s Ben Golliver, “It’s definitely going to involve a lot of me. There was talk when I was in Houston… ‘You can’t win like that.’ But last season, you saw a guy [Luka Dončić] make the Finals playing the exact same way I played.”</
In the context of Leonard’s crucial contributions or his absence, other players step up. Ivica Zubac fully rises to the occasion, providing rim protection on one end and scoring effectively on the other. Head coach Tyronn Lue consistently maximizes the potential of his roster—not just achieving success based on individual talent—and the Clippers emerge as a competitive first-round playoff team, possibly reaching the second round.
If everything falls apart
Leonard’s persistent knee issues provide no relief. Harden attempts to compensate, but this affects his aging hamstrings. They lose cohesion within the rest of the team, and even Lue struggles to motivate them to keep striving. The Intuit Dome finds itself empty, as the team heads towards the lottery where the Oklahoma City Thunder possess their draft pick. Additionally, they face the daunting prospect of paying Leonard and Harden $86 million each for the 2025-26 season, while OKC maintains rights to their draft choice.
Fantasy spin
Zubac is the sleeper pick I’m enthusiastic about on this team. He’s a highly underrated big man who has forged a solid connection with Harden. Last season, Zubac recorded the third-most assists from Harden, despite seeing his scoring metrics hit their lowest point since the 2011-12 season. The majority of these assists were generated from close-range passes and those from 4 to 14 feet, highlighting Zu’s effectiveness. Given the limited depth in the Clippers’ frontcourt, he could emerge as one of the more valuable centers during rounds past the ninth.
Managing Leonard’s ongoing knee issue is an immediate priority. Although he possesses first-round potential when reasonably healthy, the injury risks have caused me to place him in the fourth round of my rankings. — Dan Titus
Schedule
Recent updates regarding Leonard have prompted bookmakers to withdraw future odds for the Clippers, and rightfully so.
2024-25 NBA Season Outlook: Assessing the Los Angeles Clippers’ Prospects and Challenges
Overview of the Los Angeles Clippers
The Los Angeles Clippers have been a team of intrigue in the NBA, especially with their star-studded roster and high expectations. As we approach the 2024-25 season, the Clippers are looking to capitalize on their potential and make a significant playoff run. This article delves into the prospects and challenges they face in the upcoming season.
Key Players to Watch
- Kawhi Leonard: The two-time NBA champion continues to be the focal point of the Clippers’ success. His health and performance will be critical in shaping the team’s fate.
- Paul George: George’s versatility and scoring ability are essential for the Clippers. His ability to stay consistent and healthy will greatly influence the team’s dynamics.
- Russell Westbrook: After joining the Clippers mid-season last year, Westbrook’s adjustment and impact as a playmaker will be pivotal for the offense.
- New Additions: The team’s offseason acquisitions and rookies, including potential draft picks, will also play essential roles in their competitiveness.
Projected Win Totals
According to recent win projections for the 2024-25 NBA season, the Clippers are expected to be a formidable contender. Analysts predict that the team could secure a win total ranging from 45 to 50 games. This projection hinges on the health of their star players and their ability to gel as a unit. The Clippers need to focus on the following aspects to meet or exceed these expectations:
- Maintaining player health throughout the grueling season.
- Establishing a cohesive playing style that maximizes the strengths of their roster.
- Improving their defensive schemes to maintain competitiveness against high-scoring teams.
Strengths of the Clippers
Star Power
The Clippers boast one of the most talented rosters in the league. With players like Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, they have the capability to compete with the best teams. Their experience and high basketball IQ contribute significantly to their on-court performance.
Defensive Versatility
The Clippers are known for their defensive prowess. They can switch effectively on screens, which allows them to match up well against various offensive styles. This versatility will be crucial as they face teams with different offensive threats throughout the season.
Challenges Ahead
Injuries
Injuries have plagued the Clippers in recent seasons, with both Leonard and George missing significant time. The team’s success in 2024-25 largely depends on their ability to keep their stars healthy. A robust medical staff and conditioning programs will be vital to navigate this concern.
Team Chemistry
With new additions and potential roster changes, establishing chemistry among players will be crucial. How quickly the team can develop a strong bond and understanding on the court will influence their performance. Regular practice sessions and team-building activities can facilitate this process.
Schedule Highlights
The Clippers’ 2024-25 schedule features several key matchups that could impact their playoff positioning:
- Opening Night: A season opener against a top contender will set the tone for the year.
- Rivalry Games: Matches against the Lakers always draw significant attention and can boost team morale with a win.
- Back-to-Backs: Managing fatigue during back-to-back games will be important, especially for veteran players.
Playoff Predictions
Analysts believe that if the Clippers can stay healthy and build solid chemistry, they have a strong chance to make a deep playoff run. Key factors that will influence their playoff success include:
- Matchup Advantages: The ability to exploit favorable matchups against opponents.
- Bench Depth: A strong bench can alleviate the pressure on starters and maintain performance levels.
- Coaching Strategies: Tyronn Lue’s coaching strategies will be critical in making necessary adjustments during games.
Benefits of Following the Clippers This Season
Fans and analysts alike have much to gain from closely following the Clippers this season:
- Player Development: Observing young talents and their growth can be exciting, especially if they become significant contributors.
- Team Evolution: Watching how the team adapts to challenges and grows through the season provides insight into coaching effectiveness and player dynamics.
- Community Engagement: As the team competes, community outreach and engagement initiatives may become more prominent.
Conclusion
The Los Angeles Clippers enter the 2024-25 NBA season with high hopes and significant challenges. Their star-studded lineup offers immense potential, but the quest for success will hinge on health, chemistry, and the ability to adapt to the rigors of the season. As the season unfolds, fans and analysts will be keenly watching to see if the Clippers can turn their potential into playoff success.
Table: Clippers’ Key Matchups in 2024-25 Season
| Date | Opponent | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| October 24 | Golden State Warriors | Season Opener |
| December 3 | Los Angeles Lakers | Rivalry Game |
| January 15 | Boston Celtics | Playoff Preview |
| March 10 | Milwaukee Bucks | Final Stretch |
First-Hand Experience: Fan Perspectives
Fans of the Clippers have expressed both excitement and cautious optimism heading into the new season. Many hope the team can finally break through the playoff barrier after years of promise. Engaging with the community through social media and fan events can also enhance the experience, making the 2024-25 season one to remember.
