The race for the first seed in the Western Conference is gaining steam, with the OKC Thunder, Minnesota Timberwolves, Denver Nuggets, and Los Angeles Clippers all separated by just one win. However, few expected the Clippers to be in the race for the 1st seed after their disastrous start to the season in which they managed to win just 8 of their first 18 games of the season.
But here we are, just days before the All-Star break, with the Clippers putting together one of the best runs in franchise history, winning 34 of their first 50 games of the season. While the Clippers have become one of the favorites for the 2024 NBA title with a strong roster, there’s always room for improvement. However, according to Paul George, it’s unlikely that the Clippers would take the trade route to improve.
During a recent post-game interview, Paul George emphasized that the Clippers are “focused” on their goal to win the championship. He hinted that fans should anticipate a notably different approach to the trade deadline compared to previous years. He said, “We’re just focused on moving forward. I guess that’s different more so than any other year. We’re honestly not looking to make any moves. So, I don’t think anyone’s nervous or worried about their position here.”
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Asked Paul George to compare this trade deadline to others he has had with Clippers
PG says he believes team has enough to win and that he does not expect any moves tomorrow. pic.twitter.com/O3oUt6wIc0
— Law Murray ❤️🔥 (@LawMurrayTheNU) February 8, 2024
Contrary to previous seasons, the Clippers look like a cohesive unit, with very few weaknesses in the roster. So, there’s no pressing need to panic and rush into making a deadline-day trade. The Clippers have most of their bases covered as they look to finally win an NBA title, a feat they have never achieved in their franchise history.
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Can the Clippers finally end their 51-year title drought?
The Clippers have become perennial title contenders since former Microsoft CEO, Steve Ballmer, took control of the franchise in 2014. But despite possessing the likes of Chris Paul, Blake Griffin, and DeAndre Jordan, the Clippers could never come close to the NBA title. However, the 2023/24 season could prove to be very different. The Clippers look a formidable unit, with four first-ballot Hall-of-Famers leading the team.
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Under the leadership of HC Ty Lue, the Clippers have become a frightening proposition to face. After a tough start, Harden, Kawhi, PG and Westbrook have all gelled and formed a cohesive unit. The Clippers have an offensive rating of 121.3, the 3rd best mark in the league. Furthermore, they boast the highest three-point shooting percentage in the NBA, currently standing at 39.9%. If the Clippers stay healthy (and that’s a big if, considering Kawhi and PG’s history), few would bet against them winning the NBA title. What are your thoughts? Can the Clippers win the title? Let us know in the comments below!
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