Los Angeles Clippers were predicted by basketball pundits prior to the series against Golden State Warriors, to lose all their games. Well, the Clippers just proved those doubters wrong as they have engineered one of the greatest comebacks in playoff history, For the Win reports. They came back from over 80 points down, to take the game in the second half at 135-131.
Arguably the team of the decade, the Golden State Warriors have all the skills and talent that each and every ball club needs. However, talent isn’t enough in winning any game. The Clippers, who embody a “never say die” attitude not only shocked the Warriors but the whole of the NBA basketball world.
Beating the Warriors in the playoffs is indeed a milestone as the Clippers have failed numerous times in their previous meetings.
Patrick Beverley's defensive aggression
There were key players who started the process in knocking out the offensive juggernaut, Warriors. The heart and soul of the team, Patrick Beverley, was a pest and continued irritating Steph Curry and Kevin Durant. The journeyman from Chicago also displayed his defensive prowess, which led to Kevin Durant being frustrated and fouled out of the game. Danilo Gallinari showed his brilliance, scoring at will against any defender. However, the spotlight was on the dynamic duo of Montrezl Harrell and Lou Williams. They are widely considered as the two-headed beast from the bench.
Clippers' one-two punch
Montrezl Harrell is a throwback player with exceptional athleticism. Right now, he is showing a glimpse of the young Shawn Kemp. For the past two games, Trez outworked the All-Star frontline of DeMarcus Cousins and Draymond Green. He might not have the same credentials as the two players mentioned, but he is making a name for himself in a big way.
And then there’s the most prolific off the bench scorer in the history of the NBA, Lou Williams. Sweet Lou has been doing it for more than a decade and he doesn’t have any plan of stopping. Mentored by Hall of Famer and arguably the greatest pound for pound player in the NBA History, Allen Iverson, Williams eclipsed the Dell Curry’s record.
After their stunning victory, the Clippers did celebrate, but they know that the champs will be back. Doc Rivers, the head coach of the Clips also shared his thoughts on their triumphant win. Rivers mentioned that his group is special because they allow him to coach them. He reiterated that there’s no drama or ego within the team, thus making his job easy.
Doc also acknowledged the spectacular play of their prize rookie Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. The two teams will meet again tomorrow and the pressure is with the Golden State Warriors. Yes, they again blew up a commanding lead and others are already concerned about their antics. Two-time league MVP Steph Curry said it will sting a bit, but they will definitely bounce back.
