:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/63672383/usa_today_12585035.0.jpg)
The Clippers beat the Warriors last night at Oracle to stave off elimination — and not on the basis of a semi-fluke 31 point comeback. They outplayed the Warriors most of the game, holding a lead from the early parts of the 2nd quarter until the end of the game, when the Warriors briefly tied and took the lead. The Clippers played great, disciplined defense, they moved the ball exceptionally well on offense, and they actually hit their shots when they needed to. It was a gusty, powerful performance, and one that the Clippers will need to summon again if they are to push the series to seven. However, even getting the series to six, and back to Staples Center, was enough to win them praise from all corners of the NBA.
The Media:
In addition to all the usual recaps and game summaries, there have been some other articles on the Clippers and what they’ve been able to do so far in the playoffs, and how that could play into this summer.
Zach Lowe, who wrote the definitive piece on the Lou Williams-Montrez Harrell connection a few weeks ago, shouted out the duo once more at the end of his (excellent) article on the winners and losers of the NBA’s 1st round. He also went a little more in-depth on the readiness of Landry Shamet and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander to play big minutes against the Warriors, especially defensively.
Paolo Uggetti of the Ringer, just a day after writing about Shamet and Shai himself, expounded on Lou Williams’ shotmaking greatness and how the Warriors have not been able to stop him.
Kevin O’Connor, also of the Ringer, detailed how the Clippers might be able to land Kevin Durant and/or Kawhi Leonard this summer, and why those guys should be tempted by the Clippers’ depth and grittiness.
Former Clippers:
Throughout the evening, former Clippers players chimed in on the teams’ success and fight in taking it to the Warriors. Some were recent Clippers....
My guy @gallinari8888 got fresh cut and he is cooking !!!
— Marcin Gortat (@MGortat) April 25, 2019
Pb playing center
— Jawun Evans (@j3vans1_) April 25, 2019
Congrats bro
— Jawun Evans (@j3vans1_) April 25, 2019
Some were a little less recent...
Clippers are tough! They’ve earned everyone’s respect this season & they’re playing their asses off in the playoffs!! I doubt they’ll win the series but they’ve definitely made themselves the #1 free agent destination this summer.
— Matt Barnes (@Matt_Barnes22) April 25, 2019
Don’t be surprised if they get two Max players
Then bring it back to LA then @LAClippers haha way to get the W in a hard place to win. Hats off
— Cuttino Mobley (@CuttinosLife) April 25, 2019
Other NBA Players:
But it wasn’t just media members and former Clips who chimed in. Plenty of other NBA players were watching the game, and they seemed mightily impressed, mostly with Lou Williams.
Lou Will a BUCKET!!!!!!
— Trae Young (@TheTraeYoung) April 25, 2019
LOU WILL
— Jordan Clarkson (@JordanClarksons) April 25, 2019
Lou Will ☔️
— Super Mario (@mariohezonja) April 25, 2019
The Legends:
Finally, the Clippers got shouted out by some pretty big names with zero affiliation to the team whatsoever.
Lou will a fucking beast!!!!
— Meek Mill (@MeekMill) April 25, 2019
Montrezl is a beast. I love watching him play!
— DWade (@DwyaneWade) April 25, 2019
If you’re not rooting for these @LAClippers you’re a golden state fan. This is what staring in your role looks like
— DWade (@DwyaneWade) April 25, 2019
If I’m a GM or President I’m searching for a Chicago kid to add to my team. You can’t measure our heart. @patbev21 you are an animal. A player you love to hate and hate to love
— DWade (@DwyaneWade) April 25, 2019
I’m sure I missed some tweets and stories, but the overall point is clear. These Clippers are for real, and are getting exposure at the highest level of the NBA. Their brand has never been better, and their players are respected far and wide. Let’s see if they can make magic happen one more time tomorrow night at Staples.