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.
How James Harden Had His Highest Scoring Game As A Clipper
Nov 27, 2024; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; LA Clippers guard James Harden (1) takes a jump shot during the third quarter against the Washington Wizards at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Reggie Hildred-Imagn Images | Reggie Hildred/Reggie Hildred-Imagn Images
James Harden’s Clipper Career-High
The Los Angeles Clippers have been eagerly anticipating a standout scoring performance from James Harden, and it finally arrived against the Washington Wizards. Harden’s explosive three-point shooting display was a testament to his ability to elevate the team’s offense, especially in the absence of key players like Kawhi Leonard and Norman Powell. Clipper Nation had been waiting for a vintage Harden scoring night where he gets exceptionally hot from three and they got it.
Harden’s performance was not just about scoring; it was about leadership and creating good looks for his teammates. His ability to draw secondary defenders and make precise passes opened up the floor for others, including Ivica Zubac, who played a crucial role in the victory. Harden’s knack for getting into the paint and finding open shooters was instrumental in the Clippers’ dominant win.
Ivica Zubac’s Defensive Mastery
While Harden stole the spotlight, Ivica Zubac’s contribution cannot be overlooked. Zu was a defensive powerhouse, effectively shutting down the Wizards’ attempts to score in the paint. His presence in drop coverage was a nightmare for Washington, who struggled to find their rhythm against his formidable defense. The Wizards inability to shoot made it easy for Zu to essentially just shut off the paint and live with them trying their luck from the outside.
Zubac’ offensive game was equally impressive. His efficiency around the basket, particularly with his improved left-hand jump hook shots, has added another dimension to the Clippers’ half court offense. His ability to read the game and make smart decisions in the short roll situations is improving by the game. His performance was a reminder of his importance to the Clippers, both as a defensive anchor and a reliable scorer.
The Clippers’ victory over the Wizards was a team effort, with contributions from various players. However, the synergy between Harden and Zubac was the highlight, demonstrating the potential of this Clippers squad when firing on all cylinders. As the season progresses, maintaining this level of play will be crucial, especially with the eventual return of Leonard and Norman Powell.
For more insights and a deeper dive into James Harden’s impact and the Clippers’ strategies, tune into the Locked On Clippers podcast for this and much more.
**Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Clippers Podcast:**
- The role of Chris Dunn in the Clippers’ defensive schemes
- Analysis of the Clippers’ bench performance
- The impact of turnovers on the Clippers’ offensive flow
Giving thanks for a better-than-expected rookie class
Happy Thanksgiving! To give you something to talk about with your undoubtedly NBA-fluent families and friends, here are some rookie rankings to chew over.
1. Jared McCain, Philadelphia 76ers
Over his last ten games, McCain has averaged 23 points per game (top 25 in the league in that span) on solid efficiency, including 39% from deep on crazy volume. Philly hasn’t had much to cheer about this season, but McCain’s surprising on-ball creation and superb off-ball movement have Philly fans seeing a future star (wait, maybe that’s just their court). I’m obsessed with this little moonwalk he uses to shake OG Anunoby juuuust enough to bury a shuriken in his eye:
McCain moonwalks into a three over OG Anunoby
McCain likely won’t score like this when the team’s fully healthy (and he’s cooled off the last two games), but the fact that he can is a great sign for the team’s present and future.
2. Stephon Castle, San Antonio Spurs
Castle has risen to second place thanks to an excellent recent stretch. Since becoming a starter, Castle’s averaged 15 points, three boards, and five assists while playing ferocious defense.
Castle is incredibly versatile. At nearly 6’6” pre-shoes and pre-hair, he has the size and speed to fill any number of roles. As I wrote about at length here, he’s quickly becoming the perfect amorphous fit next to Victor Wembanyama.
Although his three-point accuracy is still developing, Castle’s confidence in his shot is the skeleton key that unlocks the rest of his offensive game. And the more effective he is on offense, the more opportunity he’s given to create absolute havoc on defense.
I’m particularly intrigued by his ability to be a faux-big man in the screen and roll:
Mike Shearer (@bballispoetry) has written about the NBA full-time since 2021 at various and sundry places. For more from Mike, check out his Substack bestseller, Basketball Poetry, where he uses unnecessary metaphors and the occasional haiku to discuss the NBA’s happenings with an analytical lens.
Home and Away
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Analysis The Clippers’ win streak ended amid a Celtics avalanche of 3-pointers, highlighting defensive lapses and the need for strategic adjustments. Discover the details. (Daily News)
Milestone James Harden passes Lakers legend Kobe Bryant on a historic NBA list, solidifying his place among the greats. This achievement highlights Harden’s remarkable career and enduring impact on the game. Learn more about this milestone. (Sports Illustrated)
Must Read LaMelo’s proclivity for fouls, how many wins Philadelphia needs for the play-in, examining OKC’s defense, and more. (ESPN+)
Feel Good The Pistons’ willingness to spend, the Nets’ and Lakers’ new coach, and more things for each NBA team to be thankful for. (CBS Sports)
Analysis A roundtable of experts discusses the league’s biggest storylines after the first month of the season. (Fansided)
Fantasy Cheat Sheet
In case you missed it...
Nov 26, 2024; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Utah Jazz forward/center Lauri Markkanen (23) on the floor after a collision with San Antonio Spurs forward/center Victor Wembanyama (1) during the second half at Delta Center. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Creveling-Imagn Images | Christopher Creveling/Christopher Creveling-Imagn Images
Another Lauri Markkanen Injury For Fantasy Basketball Managers To Digest | Lauri Markkanen’s recent knee injury could sideline him for at least a week, impacting fantasy basketball strategies. This opens opportunities for players like John Collins, Keyonte George, and Brice Sensabaugh to increase their roles and fantasy value.
Ja Morant Is Set To Return And Impact Fantasy Basketball Leagues | Monday’s NBA action saw significant fantasy basketball impacts, with Gary Harris and Jalen Suggs suffering hamstring injuries, potentially increasing roles for Cole Anthony and Anthony Black.
Don’t let these episodes pass you by — stay locked in with the latest Locked On Clippers podcasts.
How LA Clippers Got Destroyed By Boston Celtics In a game where the Celtics dominated with a 126-94 victory, the LA Clippers faced their toughest loss of the NBA season. This episode breaks down the Clippers’ challenges guarding Boston, highlighting the Celtics’ impressive three-point shooting and basketball style.
How The LA Clippers Smacked The 76ers En Route To A 5th Straight Win Can the Los Angeles Clippers’ defense hold up against the league’s top offenses? After a stunning victory over the Philadelphia 76ers, the Clippers are making waves in the NBA. With standout performances from James Harden and Ivica Zubac, the team is showcasing a formidable defense and evolving strategy.
Can The LA Clippers Bounce Back + What Is Their Best Lineup? Can the Los Angeles Clippers capitalize on the Washington Wizards’ struggles? With the Wizards on a 12-game losing streak, the Clippers need to take advantage. This episode hosted by die hard LA Clippers fan Darian Vaziri, breaks down the Clippers’ lineup data, highlighting Kris Dunn’s pivotal role in their top-performing lineups. It also touches on Mo Bamba’s undefeated streak and his impact off the bench are also explored, alongside reflections on former Clippers players like Brandon Boston.
