The Los Angeles Clippers continue to struggle in their early-season games and were defeated 135-118 on Tuesday vs. the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA Cup group stage, dropping them to 5-13 on the season.
Kawhi Leonard returned to the team, but the Clippers could not contain the Lakers’ Offense, which was powered by LeBron James’ 25-point performance. In addition to their on-court challenges, injuries are making it harder for them to win. Bradley Beal, Derrick Jones Jr., Jordan Miller, and Bogdan Bogdanovic are all unavailable or uncertain, forcing the remaining players to carry much of the load as the Clippers seek consistency.
Recently, Leonard gave his take on how the Clippers could have a chance of getting their season back on track.
What Did Kawhi Leonard Say About the Clippers’ Struggles?
Leonard had been sidelined since November 3 (against the Miami Heat) due to a sprained ankle, and the Clippers struggled in his absence. While fans were optimistic that once Leonard came back, things would look different, it turned out not to be the case, as since his return, he has played two games, and the Clippers have lost both.
Though he delivered decent performances in his return, the absence of other star players due to injuries put too much load on the Clippers. They are currently placed 13th in the Western Conference.
Discussing his own health and the Clippers’ struggles, Leonard stated that he feels physically great and believes the team needs to play more cohesively and increase their minutes collectively to establish a better rhythm.
“I feel good. Hopefully we can build some minutes. Because this team needs it. Probably gonna have to up our minutes to get some wins. All of us. So we’ll see what happens,” Leonard said.
He also pointed to improving overall play by making shots, tightening lineups, and performing better collectively. “Just gotta get the right lineups on the court, I guess. Get some more talent. Play with better talent and see what happens. Internally, I’m saying like playing better. Like we all just gotta play better, make shots,” he added.
In his game against the Lakers, Leonard scored 19 points, five rebounds, and three assists in his 28 minutes of play on the court. Fans will expect more from their star forward, who is currently averaging 23.1 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 3.3 assists for the season.
The Clippers will face the Memphis Grizzlies at Intuit Dome in Inglewood, CA, on November 28.
