The LA Clippers finished strong heading into the All-Star break. In their last four games, the team notched a 3-1 record with wins against the Dallas Mavericks, Golden State Warriors, and Houston Rockets. Landing them the 8th seed in the western conference. The team is still anticipating the results of Paul George’s MRI on his right elbow. If all goes well, it was reported by Chris Haynes that George will go through a two-week ramp-up period before returning to the lineup. But for now, the Clippers need to keep treading water as they remain in the play-in spot. I break down three goals for the Clippers to finish the season.
LA Clippers: Three Goals Post-Break
1. Get Healthy
Health continues to be the biggest factor for the Clippers’ success this season. The injury bug struck in all points of the season. Most recently, Norman Powell is out for the next 4-8 weeks due to a sesamoid fracture in his left foot. The injury was suffered in the first leg against the Dallas Mavericks. Powell was able to finish the game, but his status over the next few months is uncertain. Powell was on a tear, proving he is the Clippers’ best player without their main stars. In his games with the Clippers, he is averaging 21 points, four assists, and three rebounds on 47.6% from the field and 42.9% from three. If he can return before the play-in, the Clippers will be in decent shape to make some noise with their current roster.
But the day that every Clipper fan is bracing for is February 24th, the day George receives his MRI on his right elbow. The results of the MRI could dictate how the Clippers’ season will finish. If it all goes well and he returns, it could possibly lead to Kawhi Leonard ramping up to return as well. The returns of both stars in addition to Powell would make the Clippers a tough first-round exit, regardless of opponent. Again, this is all if things go well. So Clipper fans should pray that this Thursday brings good news.
2. Take Care of Business
Per Tankathon.com, the Clippers have the 18th strongest schedule remaining in the league. With the tough stretches in January and February behind them, the Clippers need to take advantage and rack up wins. Though this team displayed the ability to knock off strong opponents, they have slipped up against inferior teams like the New Orleans Pelicans, Sacramento Kings, and Indiana Pacers.
They are only one win behind the Minnesota Timberwolves in the standings and can possibly catch them for the 7th seed. Additionally, they must be wary of the Los Angeles Lakers, who they lead in the standings by only 1.5 games. The Portland Trail Blazers refuse to lose after they dealt guard CJ McCollum to the Pelicans. The Pelicans are also looking to make a run with the addition of McCollum. They may be behind the Clippers, but a streak from the Clippers or those teams can change things drastically.
3. LA Clippers Must Keep Building
Numerous role players have showcased improvement and substantial production throughout the season. From Amir Coffey to Luke Kennard to Ivica Zubac at times, the supporting cast is proving that they can make this team even more dangerous when the stars return.
The departure of backup point guard Eric Bledsoe has opened up the opportunity for Terance Mann to shine. Over the past five games, Mann is averaging 16.2 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 2.6 assists on 55.7% shooting and 40% from three. The added responsibility that Ty Lue gave him has improved his confidence and aggression. Mann is shooting confidently, attacking strong, and defending ferociously. He still has to polish his off-the-dribble game, but he has shown promise in his pull-up this season.
Additionally, the more minutes Robert Covington plays, the better. Initially thought of as an afterthought in the Blazers trade, Covington has become a fan favorite. Most noticeably in his defensive chops in which he always seems to be in the right spot and make the correct rotations. But his active hands have drawn the admiration from Clipper Nation. Whether it’s fighting through a screen to knock an entry pass away, or stopping a fast break, Covington has been instrumental in the bench unit’s success. Once he becomes more acclimated to the offense, he should get a significant bump in playing time.
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