The Los Angeles Clippers’ triumphant run hit a roadblock in Oklahoma City as they succumbed to a 134-115 defeat against the Thunder, marking the end of their impressive nine-game winning streak. Absent from the court due to a left hip contusion, Kawhi Leonard absence was profoundly felt by the team.
Coach Tyronn Lue addressed Leonard’s injury, indicating that his status remains “day to day.” Despite Paul George’s return after missing one game due to illness, contributing 22 points, the Clippers faced a formidable challenge against the Thunder on the heels of playing their third road game in four days.
Struggling to contain the Thunder’s offensive maneuvers, particularly Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s impactful 31-point performance, the Clippers faced difficulties limiting Chet Holmgren, the 7-foot-1 center, who scored 23 points, 13 of which came in the first half.
Reflecting on the game, Kawhi Leonard George acknowledged the Clippers’ struggles against Holmgren, attributing the team’s challenge to the uniqueness of Holmgren’s playing style, combining the characteristics of a guard and a wing.
Despite the defeat, Coach Lue emphasized that the loss doesn’t detract from the progress the Clippers have made in recent weeks during their unbeaten streak. Players pointed out improvements in various aspects of their gameplay, from offensive strategy and execution to defensive resilience, marking positive developments in their performance.
Notably, the Clippers’ offensive rating saw a significant rise since November, emphasizing their enhanced ability to generate points, while defensively, they showcased marked improvements in crucial moments, displaying an increased urgency and improved decision-making on the court.
Lue highlighted the team’s accelerated pace in half-court play as a standout improvement, underlining the faster offensive decisions and movements, indicative of the team’s growth and adaptability on the court.
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