[RS G1] 2024 Clippers vs Pelicans

The 4th and 5th seeds of the west collided into an intense dual. There is also a possibility that two teams will meet again at the play-offs, and this game was like a preview for the play-off series this season. Thus, this game was crucial for both teams and NBA fans.

Key Players:

Zion Williamson & Kawhi Leonard

Zion was consistently dominant in the paint, with 67% efficiency only in paint. He had neither midrange nor 3-pointer. The performance he showed in today's game was what the pelicans expected him to play from his sophomore year, but he did not consistently show up. Through this game, Zion has showed a potential to grow and possibly enter a upper seed in the western conference. Pelicans are now 2 games behind Clippers, and they have every opportunity and possibility to take over the 4th seed of the western conference.

Clippers, on the other hand, showed a critical weakness in the paint security. Considering the fact that Zion is a legit, strong scorer in the paint, still with Plum Lee and Zuvaic, clippers could not secure their paint, which was the primary reason for their loss. We could anticipate some improvement after the return of Harden, though defense should be the point of improvement. One thing positive was Turker's hustle play and apparent increase in effort. His defense was shining on the Clippers' roster.

However, the Clippers' offense was keen. Kawhai's midrange was elite throughout the game. Though one concern is his playing consistency, He played 60 games this season, which underlines his improved health status, though it is a matter of time when he will get injured, like in the last season playoffs, in which he left the series midst. How far clippers will get will depend on the health status of the Big Three: Harden, Kawhi, and George.