Clippers Secure Another Victory! Three Games, 74 Points: Powell Steps Up to Replace Leonard as the Team’s Core

The Los Angeles Clippers have turned the heads of NBA fans and analysts alike with an impressive 2-1 season start. Expected to struggle this year due to an offseason overhaul, the team is instead showing formidable power in the West. Norman Powell, taking on the role once occupied by stars Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, has emerged as a key player, cementing his place as a vital contributor. His scoring has helped propel the Clippers to crucial wins over the Denver Nuggets and Golden State Warriors, shaking up early assumptions about the team's outlook for the season.

Curry’s Injury Derails Warriors’ Late Game Comeback

In a hard-fought contest against the Warriors, Clippers guard James Harden again showcased his leadership, while Warriors' Stephen Curry faced setbacks due to a concerning ankle injury. Despite Curry’s return to the court in the fourth quarter, the Warriors couldn’t overcome the Clippers’ offensive firepower, ultimately falling short with a 104-112 loss. Curry, who finished with 18 points, four rebounds, and six assists, left the court due to a recurring ankle issue in the game’s final minutes.

With the Warriors’ two-game winning streak broken, Golden State fans have reason for concern. At 36 years old, Curry’s ability to recover from injuries quickly is paramount, especially considering his invaluable role on the team. His absence left a noticeable void in the Warriors' lineup, particularly in crunch time, when his shooting and leadership might have shifted the game in their favor.

Powell’s Ascendance: Delivering as a Core Scorer

As the Clippers adapt to significant roster changes, Norman Powell has seamlessly stepped into a primary scoring role. Historically known as a high-energy sixth man, Powell is now a starting player, and he’s thriving. In the first three games, Powell has averaged an impressive 24.7 points per game, scoring 17, 37, and 20 points, respectively. His total of 74 points places him as the team’s top scoring option, especially in the absence of Leonard and George. Powell’s consistency and efficiency have made him a standout in the Clippers' offense, providing a reliable scoring threat that has allowed the team to remain competitive against strong opponents.

Powell's contributions have been invaluable in filling the void left by Leonard’s indefinite absence and George’s departure to Philadelphia. While he lacks the same star power as his predecessors, Powell has been a steady hand for the Clippers, helping them establish an early winning record and bringing stability to the team’s revamped lineup.

Harden Shines as the Clippers’ Playmaking Anchor

James Harden’s role as the Clippers’ offensive orchestrator has also been pivotal. In the latest game, Harden notched a double-double with 23 points and 11 assists, adding to his tally from the previous matchup against the Nuggets, where he recorded 23 points and 16 assists. Leading the league with 11.7 assists per game, Harden is once again demonstrating his elite playmaking skills. Without Leonard or George, Harden’s ability to generate scoring opportunities has become indispensable.

This performance marks a revival for Harden, who now has full control as the team’s primary ball-handler. Known for his versatility and court vision, Harden has adapted his play style to fit the Clippers’ current roster, making the most of the talents surrounding him. His improved chemistry with center Ivica Zubac, in particular, has been a game-changer. Zubac, who has capitalized on Harden’s feeds for easy baskets, even displayed an unexpected dunk in this game.

Zubac’s Strong Start in the Paint

Another surprise for the Clippers has been the early dominance of Ivica Zubac. Over the first three games, Zubac has averaged 22 points and 13.7 rebounds per game, making him the team’s most potent weapon in the paint. His consistency and versatility are reminiscent of Hall of Famer Bob McAdoo, who last achieved a similar feat for the franchise in 1975. Zubac’s interior presence has anchored the Clippers on both ends of the floor, as he has also demonstrated an increased playmaking ability, totaling 13 assists through the first three games.

Zubac’s value to the Clippers this season is clear, especially following his three-year, $58.6 million contract extension. With his scoring and rebounding improving each game, Zubac has provided the Clippers with a reliable option inside, allowing them to out-rebound opponents and control the tempo. As Zubac continues to build on his impressive start, his development could be a key factor in the Clippers’ long-term success.

Clippers Defy Preseason Expectations

Few predicted the Clippers would open the season with such grit and competitiveness, given the drastic changes they endured in the offseason. With George now playing for the 76ers, Russell Westbrook on the Nuggets, and Leonard sidelined, expectations were low. Yet, the Clippers have defied the odds, leveraging Harden’s leadership, Powell’s scoring, and Zubac’s growth to surprise the Western Conference with an early winning record.

Harden’s effective playmaking, Zubac’s dominance in the paint, and Powell’s consistent scoring are collectively elevating the team’s performance, making them contenders in the West despite their redefined roster. The Clippers’ success in this early stretch demonstrates that their roster, though altered, remains competitive. While the team’s future will ultimately depend on Leonard’s health and the potential return of their stars, they’ve shown resilience and adaptability.

Leonard’s Absence Fuels New Team Dynamics

As the Clippers continue to win without Leonard, it becomes less clear when – or if – he’ll return this season. Leonard’s absence has given the remaining roster the opportunity to solidify a new identity, with Harden at the helm and Powell becoming the go-to scorer. The Clippers’ strong start could mean less pressure on Leonard to return prematurely, allowing him to focus on a full recovery. For Powell and the rest of the Clippers’ emerging leaders, this season represents a unique opportunity to prove their worth as the franchise’s core players.

The unexpected success of the Clippers this season has sparked renewed hope and excitement among their fanbase. Despite beginning the season as presumed underdogs, the team’s remarkable start suggests that they may have the talent and cohesion to make a playoff push – with or without their former stars.