After a humiliating first-round exit in the last season, the Los Angeles Clippers fans were looking for inspiration. Emphatically, it arrived from the team’s superstars as they teamed up in their pre-season opener. Paul George and Kawhi Leonard returned to the court with a bang against the Utah Jazz.

The duo combined for a play as they put their side ahead of their conference rival early in the game. All this happened in the absence of Russell Westbrook, whose return could add fuel to the fire.

What did Paul George and Kawhi Leonard do?

Within the initial minutes of the match, Jazz decided to run a play to penetrate the high post area of the Clippers. George read the situation and his proactive efforts resulted in a turnover for the opposition. It sparked a counter from the LA side as Leonard’s left-handed dunk gave them a 4-2 early lead at home.

In another possession, George attacked the top of the key as he dismantled the Jazz defense. The  33-year-old nailed down a 2-pointer in that sequence as his team held onto their lead. This elite game-reading ability mixed with a lethal scoring instinct excited the viewers as it restored faith in them.

The injury struggles of both of them cost the franchise on numerous occasions in the last few seasons. So, their dominant return to the NBA was all that the home supporters wanted to watch against Utah. The fans could only dream how great their starting five would be upon the return of Westbrook.

Despite their point guard getting a night off, the team took a 50-43 lead going into the half-time. Kawhi helped in offense with 11 points as PG put out an all-around brilliant display with 8 points and 5 rebounds. The Clippers have showcased their strength in the opening pre-season game, just how the audience wanted. With the excitement around this side piquing over time, the only anticipation is around their regular season consistency.

Can they create history this season?

The two of sides of the City of Angels have told two different stories over the years. The Los Angeles Clippers have been the unlucky ones despite their best efforts. In recent campaigns, they have risked their all to become a leading NBA roster but failed miserably.

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With the big three in their 30s, it must not be long before the organization starts looking for other options. But until then, they are willing to back their icons till the end. Now, the ball is in the court of the players.

Can they turn their supporters’ fantasy into a reality this time around? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

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