The Los Angeles Clippers are currently holding onto the eighth seed in the Western Conference, with nine games left in the regular season. This means they have a real shot at securing a spot in the NBA Playoffs. A key player in their push is Kawhi Leonard, who recently shared insights into the team's mindset as they gear up for the postseason.
Leonard's Leadership and Clippers' Playoff Aspirations
The Clippers have hit their stride with three consecutive wins and a 6-4 record over their last ten games. This surge in performance has sparked discussions about their potential for a deep playoff run.
So, what’s driving this newfound intensity? Leonard's perspective sheds light on their competitive spirit.
"This group likes to play basketball. They love to have fun out there and compete.
And we’re not scared of nobody, even if they’re more talented or the record’s better. We still want to go out and compete and try to have pride in playing and being competitive out there," Leonard explained.
With their recent form, the Clippers are emerging as potential dark horses for the championship. They boast the third-best field goal percentage in the league at 48.6%, and their effective field goal percentage ranks fifth at 57.5%.
Offensively, they’re no slouches, with a rating of 117.5, placing them 10th in the NBA. On defense, they're equally formidable, allowing just 112.5 points per game, also 10th in the league.
Leonard emphasizes the importance of his teammates stepping up, particularly the younger players who are seeing increased minutes. "It’s a lot of young guys, guys that’s getting a lot of minutes in different roles this year that are stepping up.
You just got to just tell them to enjoy the moment, even at times when we’re down or the calls ain’t going our way. It’s just basketball at the end of the day.
… So, just keep one foot in front of the other and just play and have fun," he added.
While there are areas for improvement, the Clippers have shown promising signs. As the NBA Playoffs approach, their focus and determination will be crucial when the stakes are raised.