Losing a star player can lead to a number of doomsday-like scenarios. Such was the case of fans of the Los Angeles Clippers after they lost Paul George to the Philadelphia 76ers in July. It has seriously impacted the team dynamics heading into the next season. However, coach Tyronn Lue thinks he can make it work with the rest.
Head coach Tyronn Lue wasn’t ready to let the disappointment get to him. He confidently asserted that under his watch, the team will have its best season ever, despite the doubters. The Clippers have a strong foundation with Kawhi Leonard, one of the best two-way wings in the game, who can lead the team on a deep playoff run if he stays healthy.
When you lose a guy of Paul George’s stature, instantly people [think] oh, they can’t win or they’re not going to be competitive. But that just challenges me even more. OK, people are counting us out, or people don’t think we’re going to be good. That right there just gives me an extra dose of [motivation]. I can’t wait to prove everybody wrong.
Tyronn Lue told ESPN’s Ohm Youngmisuk
To support the star duo of Leonard and James Harden, the Clippers have a stacked team assembled. Players like Ivica Zubac, Mo Bamba, Norman Powell, and Derrick Jones Jr. contribute to their depth and versatility. These players, combined with a new arena, might be the motivation Lue needs to fuel his confidence.
Despite being in a tough Western Conference, the Clippers have the potential to pull off something special and defy expectations. However, the duo of Leonard and Harden must remain healthy. The team hopes for a fresh start after the departure of Paul George and Russell Westbrook. Their season begins with a home game against the Phoenix Suns.
Tyronn Lue expects Kawhi Leonard to be ready for Clippers’ training camp
Fans and the basketball world were in shock when LA Clippers star Kawhi Leonard appeared in 68 games last season, his most since 2016-17. However, he was limited in the playoffs due to a knee injury. Despite this, Leonard is expected to be available when the Clippers begin training camp on October 1st, according to head coach Ty Lue.
I speak to him all the time. He’ll be ready for [Clippers] training camp. He’s feeling good and I know he’ll be ready for training camp.
Tyronn Lue told ESPN’s Ohm Youngmisuk
The Clippers will rely heavily on Leonard’s availability next season, especially after Paul George’s departure. Leonard is expected to be the team’s primary ball handler. Thus, his health will be crucial to the team’s success in the Western Conference.
Furthermore, he had an impressive net rating, the second-best among Clippers players who appeared in at least ten games last season. The exit of PG13 has elevated James Harden, who will return to share ball-handling duties. An experienced coach like Ty Lue can figure things out on how to elevate the team.
