Darian Vaziri here, the host of the daily Locked On Clippers podcast, with your daily Locked On Clippers newsletter. Each day we bring you the biggest stories about the Clippers and the NBA, including the hottest links to other stories you need to read. Plus, Josh Lloyd delivers daily fantasy notes to crush your league.
3 Hottest Topics in Clipper Land
Nov 6, 2024; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Clippers guard Norman Powell (24) shoots against Philadelphia 76ers guard Kelly Oubre Jr. (9) during the first half at Intuit Dome. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images|Gary A. Vasquez/Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
Clippers’ Defensive Prowess and Norman Powell’s All-Star Potential
As a lifelong Los Angeles Clippers fan, I’ve seen the team evolve over the years, and this season is no exception. With a current record of 4-4, the Clippers are showing promise, especially on the defensive end. Our defense is shaping up to be one of the best in the league, and it’s exciting to see how this will play out as the season progresses.
Norman Powell: A Rising Star
Norman Powell has been a revelation this season. Averaging 25 points per game, Powell’s aggressive scoring and efficiency have been crucial for the Clippers. His shooting splits are impressive, with 53% from the field and nearly 49% from three-point range. Powell’s ability to hit contested jumpers and his improved passing have been standout aspects of his game. His defense has also seen significant improvement, making him a well-rounded player. The question now is whether Powell can maintain this level of play and earn an All-Star nod. His performance in the first two months will be critical, as early-season success often influences All-Star selections.
Clippers’ Defensive Strengths
Our defense has been a focal point this season, and it’s paying off. Ivica Zubac’s rim protection and ability to alter shots have been vital. Despite not leading in blocks, his presence in the paint deters opponents. Zubac’s strength and ability to finish around the basket make him an invaluable asset. James Harden, known for his offensive prowess, has also contributed defensively. His active hands and solid defensive moments have been a pleasant surprise.
Terance Mann and Derrick Jones Jr. have been key defensive players as well. Mann’s discipline and ability to avoid foul trouble are areas for improvement, but his overall defensive impact is positive. Jones Jr. has added athleticism and defensive versatility, making him a crucial part of our lineup. His three-point shooting has also improved, providing an additional offensive threat.
Kris Dunn’s defensive contributions off the bench have been exceptional. His athleticism and active hands create opportunities for fast breaks, adding a dynamic element to our defense. Dunn’s ability to push the pace and create transition opportunities is something we lacked before.
As we continue the season, maintaining our defensive intensity will be crucial. The Clippers are currently fifth in defensive rating, and with continued effort, we can climb even higher. The team’s defensive mindset, led by players like Zubac and Dunn, is setting the tone for success.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Clippers’ season, tune into the Locked On Clippers podcast for this and much more.
**Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Clippers Podcast:**
- The impact of Kawhi Leonard’s absence on the team’s performance
- Analysis of the Clippers’ recent games against the Sacramento Kings and Toronto Raptors
- Discussion on the potential of Kevin Porter Jr. in the Clippers’ rotation
- Insights into the Clippers’ offensive strategies and areas for improvement
The Nuggets did it (Nikola Jokic did it), the Warriors did it (the death lineup and defensive efficiency), the Celtics did it (switching one through five, pre-switching, neutralizing open lanes), and now the Thunder are doing it.
It’s been described as pestering, smothering, swarming, but I‘d like to put “car wash” into consideration. That’s the set up awaiting opponents. The car (the opposing team) gets locked into those self-driving tracks and the gauntlet begins. Lu Dort and Alex Caruso appear as those cylindrical spinning brushes, stripping the ball outright and early or else funnelling players into the next wave of guards. Pressure continues from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jaylen Williams but it becomes more targeted, thinking of the jet streams of water now being directed at the car from every angle — and those spinning whirlwinds of Caruso and Dort haven’t relented.
If, somehow, an opposing player finds a sliver of daylight in the so-small-its-micro-ball switching scheme the Thunder are playing, if they manage to get out from the many hands reaching in, pressuring, forcing turnovers, then they will meet Chet Holmgren at the rim. Holmgren is like those long, slapping shammy tentacles that come down on the hood, sides and roof of the car from every angle, though his reach and hands are much more expertly deployed. The Thunder have a defensive rating of 96.5 (for context the Warriors, at second best, seem light-years behind with a respectable 103.8) and lead the league in steals (13.4) and blocks (7.3). The cars are coming out spotless, utterly worked.
Katie Heindl is a credentialed NBA and WNBA writer, her bylines have appeared with The New York Times Magazine, SLAM, The Athletic, Yahoo Sports, Dime, Rolling Stone, among others. She writes the bestselling Substack, Basketball Feelings and is working on a book of the same name.
Home and Away
Analysis The Clippers are relying on Norman Powell for scoring and defensive leadership, a significant shift in team dynamics. (Daily News)
Analysis A 17-year NBA veteran weighs in on the Clippers’ competitive edge compared to league giants LeBron James and Ja Morant. (Sports Illustrated)
Watch Defense wins games? Here’s an insightful breakdown of OKC’s defensive schemes. (Thinking Basketball)
Must Read The Influence of Sedona Price: Take a fascinating look at the domino effect of NIL on college athletics, women’s sports, social media and athlete health. (The New Yorker)
Fantasy Cheat Sheet
Fantasy Cheat Sheet
Fantasy Basketball Impact of Miles Bridges’ Injury
Charlotte Hornets forward Miles Bridges (0) holds his knee after a collision at the basket against the Detroit Pistons during the second half at Spectrum Center.|Photo by Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images
With only three games on Thursday, there was ample time to delve into the latest injury news and its implications for fantasy managers.
Injury Updates and Their Impact
Miles Bridges’ knee injury is a significant concern. After initially returning to play, he’s now sidelined for at least two weeks with a knee bone bruise. This situation opens up opportunities for other players. With Nick Richards and Mark Williams also out, Taj Gibson steps in as the starting centre. Grant Williams, who has been getting centre minutes, will likely shift to playing more at the four, alongside Tidjane Salaun. This reshuffling could push Williams into a more prominent role, making him a potential pick-up in 12-team leagues.
The absence of Bridges also means increased usage for Brandon Miller and LaMelo Ball. Tre Mann is another player to watch; holding onto him could be beneficial as the team adjusts to these injuries.
Ja Morant’s hamstring injury is another blow, with expectations of a two-week absence. Memphis’ injury reporting is notoriously vague, so fantasy managers should prepare for an extended period without Morant. Tyrese Maxey’s situation is similar, with the Sixers indicating a reevaluation in a week, but realistically, it could be longer. Kyle Lowry is a suitable replacement in the meantime.
Don’t let these episodes pass you by — stay locked in with the latest Locked On Clippers podcasts.
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