Clippers End 2024 with Disappointing Loss to Spurs: What Went Wrong?
The LA Clippers closed out 2024 in disastrous fashion, suffering a 122-86 blowout loss to the San Antonio Spurs. This game was effectively over by the middle of the third quarter, raising questions about the team’s effort and focus heading into the new year.
From the opening tip, it was clear the Clippers weren’t playing with their usual intensity. James Harden led the team with 17 points, but his process was concerning. He dominated possession, dribbling excessively and often passing as a last resort late in the shot clock. This stagnant offense left teammates like Norman Powell standing around, unable to get into a rhythm.
Victor Wembanyama dominated for the Spurs, finishing with 27 points, 9 rebounds, and 3 blocks in just 26 minutes. The Clippers’ strategy of letting Wemby shoot threes until he got hot backfired, as he went 9-for-12 from inside the arc. His improved ability to punish smaller defenders was on full display.
The Clippers’ shooting woes were a major factor, as they hit just 34.5% from the field compared to the Spurs’ 49%. The rebounding battle was also lopsided, with San Antonio grabbing 58 boards to LA’s 41. Turnovers further compounded the issues, with the Clippers coughing it up 14 times to the Spurs’ 9.
Looking ahead, there are legitimate questions about the roles of Kevin Porter Jr. and Mo Bamba in the rotation. KPJ’s ball-stopping tendencies and inconsistent shooting have become a concern, while Bamba has yet to show he can contribute meaningfully at the NBA level. It may be time to give extended looks to players like Bones Hyland and Kai Jones instead.
Despite this disappointing loss, it’s important to maintain perspective. The Clippers are still 19-14 and sitting in the 6th seed in the competitive Western Conference. With Kawhi Leonard’s return on the horizon and a full season ahead at the new Intuit Dome, 2025 could still be a landmark year for the franchise.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Clippers’ performance against the Spurs, tune into the Locked On Clippers podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Clippers Podcast:
• Ivica Zubac’s surprising free throw struggles this season
• The potential impact of Terance Mann’s return to the lineup
• Looking ahead to the upcoming matchup against the red-hot Oklahoma City Thunder
