James Harden, Kawhi, and the Clippers Are On a HOT Streak, JJ Goes Off About Fouls, and a Rookie Check-in on Brandon Miller | OM3 THINGS
Dec 18, 2023
auto_awesome
Basketball analysts Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. join JJ Redick to discuss the hot streak of the LA Clippers, the evolution of fouls in the NBA, and analyze rookie Brandon Miller's skills and performance on the Charlotte Hornets.
The LA Clippers have been the hottest team in the league, with a 11-3 record over their last 14 games and a seven-game winning streak, thanks to Kawhi Leonard's elite level performance and the team's improved offensive flow resulting in a more potent attack.
Kawhi Leonard's role and involvement in the Clippers' offense have shifted, with a focus on him being involved earlier and in a variety of ways, such as post-ups and pick-and-rolls, leading to a more dynamic and potent offense for the Clippers.
Deep dives
The Clippers are the hottest team in basketball
The LA Clippers are currently on a seven-game winning streak and have a record of 11-3 over their last 14 games, tying them for the best record in the league. Kawhi Leonard has been playing at an elite level, averaging 29.6 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists per game in the month of December. He has been getting involved in different ways, including in the post and pick-and-roll, and has been shooting exceptionally well, with a 61% field goal percentage and a 56.8% three-point shooting percentage in the past month. The Clippers' offense has become more decisive and they are playing with better flow, resulting in a more potent attack.
The evolution of Kawhi Leonard
Kawhi Leonard's performance has seen a shift in his role and involvement in the Clippers' offense. Earlier in the season, there was a focus on exploring different options and seeing what works best, but it has now become clear that Kawhi needs to be involved earlier and in a variety of ways. He has been taking advantage of different opportunities, such as post-ups and pick-and-rolls, and has been incredibly efficient, shooting over 60% on catch-and-shoot threes in the past 10 games. The chemistry between Kawhi and James Harden, particularly in pick-and-roll situations, has been developing and providing the Clippers with a more dynamic and potent offense.
The competitive Western Conference
The Western Conference has been highly competitive, with eight teams between second and ninth place separated by just three games. The Clippers' recent performance has placed them in the mix, and their success will depend on matchups and how they continue to stabilize their game. The Western Conference race is unpredictable, and any team has the potential to make a run. The Clippers, with Kawhi Leonard leading the way, have the elements needed to compete at the highest level. It's a wide-open conference that promises excitement and surprises.
Evaluation of Brandon Miller's rookie season
Brandon Miller, the second overall pick in the draft, has shown promise in his rookie season with the Orlando Magic. He has started 16 out of 22 games and has displayed both offensive and defensive skills. One of his strengths is his defense, as he has the length and potential to become a versatile defender. Offensively, he has a pure jump shot, is comfortable taking threes, and shows potential in driving and finishing at the rim. However, there are areas for improvement, such as setting up plays when off the ball and making better decisions in pick-and-roll situations. Overall, Miller has displayed potential and has made a positive impact for the Magic.
Another Monday, another OM3 Things! Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. of The Dunker Spot join JJ to break down why the Clippers have been the hottest team in the league over their last 14 games, deep-dive into how fouls and foul calls in today’s NBA compare to previous decades, and share their thoughts on Charlotte Hornets rookie Brandon Miller.