Clippers Find Success Topping the West After Slow Start to Season

Los Angeles Clippers v Atlanta Hawks
(Photo : (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)) ATLANTA, GEORGIA - FEBRUARY 05: James Harden #1 of the LA Clippers reacts after hitting a three-point basket against the Atlanta Hawks during the first quarter at State Farm Arena on February 05, 2024 in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.

It's all smiles in Los Angeles, at least for the Clippers.

After losses from the Minnesota Timberwolves and Oklahoma City Thunder, the Los Angeles Clippers are the number one seed in the Western Conference with a record of 34-15.  

The Clippers started the season slow out the gate with a 3-7 record. They then went all in, trading for star guard James Harden earlier in the season. Despite bringing in the former MVP, the move initially failed to have any immediate impact in the winning column for the Clippers. 

Since then, the Clippers have been red hot, winning nine of their last ten games with their recent 149-144 win against the Atlanta Hawks.

The Clippers' rise in the Western Conference was unexpected to say the least, as they picked up wins against some of the best teams in the league like the Boston Celtics and Miami Heat.

Unfortunately, it isn't likely the team will hold on to the number one seed in the West. However, their recent success has the Clippers fans dreaming of championship glory. 

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Los Angeles Clippers: Role Players Coming Up Big 

Head coach Tyrone Lue has found the right balance to complement the team's star players.

Former league MVP Russell Westbrook has embraced the bench role, providing needed value to the Clippers' second unit.

Role players like Terrance Mann and Daniel Thesis have provided grittiness and floor spacing for the Clippers. Despite early bumps in the road, James Harden has settled into his role on the team nicely as a third option.

Futuremoere Kwahi Leornard looks like one of the best players in the league, averaging 24.4 points, 6.3 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 1.7 steals a night.  

Los Angeles Clippers: Chase for the Ring

It's no secret the Clippers have yet to experience the success they hoped for during the Kwahi and Paul George era. 

Both joined the team in the 2019 offseason, hoping to win a championship in LA. Injuries have derailed both players holding them back from the elusive championship. 

Los Angeles was bounced out of the first round of the 2023 NBA playoffs against Kevin Durant and the Phoenix Suns. Nevertheless, with their recent success and contributions from role players, the Clippers are poised to make a strong push toward their championship aspirations.

The Clippers look to keep to the winning ways as they take on the New Orleans Pelicans tonight. 

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