The Los Angeles Clippers are on course to win the NBA championship this season, despite languishing in third place. Coach Tyronn Lue built a solid team, and the franchise looks focused on bringing the Larry O’Brien trophy home. In an interview with Kenny Smith, Rajon Rondo discussed how Kawhi Leonard and Serge Ibaka instilled a winning mentality in the team. With Paul George also in their ranks, the Clippers are on their way to the playoffs yet again.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Clippers moving in the right direction
“It’s an unselfish organization. Starts with the GM, the president, trickles down to coach Tyronn Lue and then the players. I love this organization, since day 1, since I came, they’ve treated me like royalty.
“So it’s only fair that I give it back with 110%, so we definitely have the DNA. I feel like I personally have that blueprint, a lot of guys in this locker room have that blueprint.
“Tyronn Lue is a multiple-time champion himself, Kawhi Leonard, Serge, so we have the DNA. We have all the talent and the blueprint to do it, it’s just a matter of coming together and doing the job with one another,” said Rondo.
Two-time champion, Rajon Rondo, provides plenty of experience to the Clippers. Adding Kawhi and Ibaka to the mix speaks volumes about the personalities and leadership within the squad. In addition, Paul George looks a man determined this time around. He averages 23.6 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 5.2 assists with an effective field goal percentage of 56.3. With Luke Kennard, DeMarcus Cousins, and Patrick Beverley adding to the depth, they are expected to have a deep run in the playoffs.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Will the Clippers finally break their hoodoo?
Clippers have a record of 45 wins and 22 losses as of now, while winning their last two games. They have an offensive rating of 113.9, which is ranked second-best in the league. The potential is there for this team to win a championship, but it all depends on how the players and coaches turn up to the task ahead.
For the last couple of seasons, Clippers president Lawrence Frank has quietly assembled a championship-winning team. Tyronn Lue has plenty of experience to manufacture this side into an offensive juggernaut while remaining responsible at the defensive side of the court. With all the jigsaw puzzle pieces put together, the time has come for this franchise to reach the peak of perfection.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
READ MORE- Clippers Coach Believes Kawhi Leonard and Paul George’s Style Reflects Kobe Bryant