The Los Angeles Clippers entered the All-Star break with momentum, winning three straight and going 6-4 in their last ten games. They also didn’t stand pat at the trade deadline, making key moves to bolster their roster and strengthen their postseason goals. With the additions of Ben Simmons, Bogdan Bogdanovic, Patty Mills, Drew Eubanks, and MarJon Beauchamp, the Clippers have reinforced their depth and versatility for the final stretch of the season.
The Clippers already boast the second-best defensive rating in the NBA (108.3), and adding Simmons to their second unit only enhances their ability to lock down opponents. Bogdanovic brings additional scoring punch off the bench, while Eubanks provides another big body in the frontcourt. These acquisitions complement a team that already features the star power of Kawhi Leonard, James Harden, and Norman Powell, giving head coach Tyronn Lue more flexibility with his rotations depending on matchups.
Lue acknowledged that building chemistry will take time, but he remains optimistic about the team’s direction. “It’s going to take a little time as far as rotations and how we play guys together, but from a basketball standpoint, I’m kind of excited about it,” he said. With 28 games remaining in the regular season, integrating these new pieces quickly will be crucial as the Clippers push for a higher seed in the Western Conference playoff race.
After the win against Utah last Thursday night February 13, Harden highlighted how the team now has elements it previously lacked, particularly with Simmons’ ability to push the pace and facilitate. “Ben, with his pace up the floor, finishing, and playmaking ability… It’s only one game. Obviously, [Kawhi Leonard] didn’t play tonight, but once we get our full roster and get rolling, we can do some great things.”
If Simmons’ debut in last Thursday’s overtime win against the Utah Jazz he posted 12 points, 7 rebounds, 6 assists, 3 steals, and a block on 4-of-5 shooting is any indication, the Clippers could soon have one of the most balanced and dangerous rotations in the league.
With a 31-23 record and currently sitting in 6th place, the Clippers have positioned themselves well for a strong finish. Their defense remains elite, their depth has improved, and their core stars are battle-tested. Regardless of where they finish in the standings, they are built for a deep playoff run.
The Clippers are hitting the road for a seven-game trip, starting Thursday, February 20, in Milwaukee against Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Bucks, followed by a matchup with the Indiana Pacers on Sunday.