Clips Nation - Clippers-Raptors game coverageWhat it do babyyyhttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/47967/clipsnation_fave.png2016-01-24T14:45:02-08:00http://www.clipsnation.com/rss/stream/95430472016-01-24T14:45:02-08:002016-01-24T14:45:02-08:00Los Angeles Clippers at Toronto Raptors
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/X6wDNeE1mcGQWIBdCzGCpfuHREc=/0x129:4229x2948/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/48630819/usa-today-9071942.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Fresh off demolishing the Knicks in New York, the Clippers continue their Eastern Conference road trip against the 2nd place Toronto Raptors. The Raptors are the current favorite to be the strongest challenge to the Cavaliers winning the East, and while their overall roster isn't amazing, they have one of the best one-two punches in the league with their backcourt of Kyle Lowry and DeMar DeRozan.</p> <p> </p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="5" border="1" cellspacing="5" class="sbnu-legacy-content-table"><tbody> <tr><th align="center" colspan="3" bgcolor="#ED174C"><font color="white">2015/2016 NBA Season</font></th></tr> <tr> <td width="240"><center><img src="https://cdn1.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/4180880/lacballlogo.0.png"></center></td> <th align="center" width="20"><strong>@</strong></th> <td width="240"><center><img src="https://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/4121934/raplogo.0.png"></center></td> </tr> <tr> <td width="240"><center><strong>28-15</strong></center></td> <th align="center" width="20"></th> <td width="240"><center><strong>28-15</strong></center></td> </tr> <tr><td align="center" colspan="3" bgcolor="#006BB6"><font color="white"><strong>January 24, 2016 3:00 PM (PDT)</strong></font></td></tr> <tr><td align="center" colspan="3"><strong>Air Canada Centre (Toronto, Canada)</strong></td></tr> <tr><td align="center" colspan="3"><strong>Prime Ticket, TSN2, KFWB 980 AM, KWKW 1330 AM</strong></td></tr> <tr><th align="center" colspan="3" bgcolor="#006BB6"><font color="white">Win-Loss Breakdown (2015-2016 Regular Season)</font></th></tr> <tr> <td align="right" width="240"><strong>12-4</strong></td> <th align="center" width="20">East</th> <td width="240">20-8</td> </tr> <tr> <td align="right" width="240"><strong>16-11</strong></td> <th align="center" width="20">West</th> <td width="240"><strong>8-7</strong></td> </tr> <tr> <td align="right" width="240"><strong>4-4</strong></td> <th align="center" width="20">Division</th> <td width="240"><strong>7-1</strong></td> </tr> <tr> <td align="right" width="240"><strong>15-7</strong></td> <th align="center" width="20">Home</th> <td width="240"><strong>14-6</strong></td> </tr> <tr> <td align="right" width="240"><strong>13-8</strong></td> <th align="center" width="20">Road</th> <td width="240"><strong>14-9</strong></td> </tr> <tr> <td align="right" width="240"><strong>8-12</strong></td> <th align="center" width="20">.500 +</th> <td width="240"><strong>12-9</strong></td> </tr> <tr> <td align="right" width="240"><strong>20-3</strong></td> <th align="center" width="20">- .500</th> <td width="240"><strong>16-6</strong></td> </tr> <tr> <td align="right" width="240"><strong>3-0</strong></td> <th align="center" width="20">OT</th> <td width="240"><strong>1-1</strong></td> </tr> <tr> <td align="right" width="240"><strong>8-2</strong></td> <th align="center" width="20">L10</th> <td width="240"><strong>8-2</strong></td> </tr> <tr><th align="center" colspan="3" bgcolor="#006BB6"><font color="white">Projected Starters</font></th></tr> <tr> <td align="right" bgcolor="#FFD700" width="240"><strong><span>K</span>yle Lowry</strong></td> <th align="center" width="20">PG</th> <td width="240" bgcolor="#FFD700"><strong><span>C</span>hris Paul</strong></td> </tr> <tr> <td align="right" width="240"><strong><span>D</span>eMar DeRozan</strong></td> <th align="center" width="20">SG</th> <td width="240" bgcolor="#FFD700"><strong><span>J</span>J Redick</strong></td> </tr> <tr> <td align="right" bgcolor="#FFD700" width="240"><strong><span>James Johnson</span></strong></td> <th align="center" width="20">SF</th> <td width="240"><strong>Luc Mbah a Moute</strong></td> </tr> <tr> <td align="right" bgcolor="#FFD700" width="240"><strong><span>Luis Scola</span></strong></td> <th align="center" width="20">PF</th> <td width="240"><strong><span>Paul Pierce</span></strong></td> </tr> <tr> <td align="right" width="240"><strong><span>Jonas Valanciunas</span></strong></td> <th align="center" width="20">C</th> <td width="240"><span>DeAndre Jordan</span></td> </tr> <tr><th bgcolor="#006BB6" colspan="3" align="center"><font color="white">Advanced Stats (2015-2016 Regular Season)</font></th></tr> <tr> <td width="240" align="right"><strong style="text-align: start;">98.4 (13th of 30)</strong></td> <th width="20" align="center">Pace</th> <td width="240"><strong>95.6 (26th of 30)</strong></td> </tr> <tr> <td width="240" align="right"><strong style="text-align: start;">106.4 (4th of 30)</strong></td> <th width="20" align="center">ORtg</th> <td width="240"><strong>105.1 (6th of 30)</strong></td> </tr> <tr> <td width="240" align="right"><strong style="text-align: start;">101.5 (12th of 30)</strong></td> <th width="20" align="center">DRtg</th> <td width="240"><strong>100.9 (10th of 30)</strong></td> </tr> <tr><th align="center" colspan="3" bgcolor="#006BB6"><strong><font color="white">Injuries/Other</font></strong></th></tr> <tr> <td style="text-align: right;" width="240" align="right"> <span>DeMarre Carroll</span> (Out- knee surgery)</td> <th width="20" align="center"></th> <td width="240"> <span>Blake Griffin</span> (Doubtful- quad)<strong></strong> </td> </tr> </tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="5" border="1" cellspacing="5" class="sbnu-legacy-content-table"><tbody> <tr><th align="center" colspan="5" bgcolor="#ED174C"><center><strong><font color="white"><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.raptorshq.com/">Raptors</a> leading 2015-16 season series against <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.clipsnation.com/">Clippers</a>; 1-0</font></strong></center></th></tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#006BB6"><center><strong><font color="white">Date</font></strong></center></td> <td bgcolor="#006BB6"><center><strong><font color="white">Venue</font></strong></center></td> <td bgcolor="#006BB6"><center><strong><font color="white">Final</font></strong></center></td> <td bgcolor="#006BB6"><center><strong><font color="white">Clips Nation Recap</font></strong></center></td> <td bgcolor="#006BB6"><center><strong><font color="white">NBA Box Score</font></strong></center></td> </tr> <tr> <td><center><strong>11/22/2015</strong></center></td> <td><center><strong>Los Angeles</strong></center></td> <td><center><strong>Raptors 91, Clippers 80</strong></center></td> <td><center><a href="http://www.nba.com/games/20151122/TORLAC/gameinfo.html">Recap</a></center></td> <td> <center><a href="http://www.nba.com/games/20151122/TORLAC/gameinfo.html">Box Score</a></center> <div></div> </td> </tr> </tbody></table>
<p> </p>
<p>This should be a fun one between two of the top seven teams in the NBA. Go Clippers!</p>
https://www.clipsnation.com/2016/1/24/10823416/los-angeles-clippers-at-toronto-raptorsRobert Flom2015-11-23T09:45:02-08:002015-11-23T09:45:02-08:00Film Room: The Difference Effort Makes
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/CTG0SG204FZceY-jTkebBH4iHHU=/1x0:692x461/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/47721569/Screen_Shot_2015-10-15_at_4.01.50_PM.0.0.png" />
</figure>
<p>A late second half run almost brought the Clippers back against the Raptors. We take a look at how a lack of defensive idleness created the deficit and how better effort nearly erased the deficit. </p> <p>Ralph Lawler and Michael Smith ostensibly accused the <a href="https://www.clipsnation.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Clippers</a> disparaging loss to fatigue and unfair scheduling. That's not why the <a href="https://www.raptorshq.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Raptors</a> beat the Clippers. Despite Dwane Casey's inability to coach, the Raptors banished the Clippers to the realm of under-500 teams. For the first time since <span>Chris Kaman</span> was a Clipper, the team has a losing record this late into the season. A juxtaposed first-half versus second-half advertised the Clippers biggest issue - effort. Offensively, the Clippers didn't convert open shots. On uncontested field goals, the Clippers shot 18 of 47, for 38 percent. A shockingly low number. More frightening was the ease the of the Raptors paint attacking ability. The Canadians put up 16 shots within a few feet of the rim in the first half, not including fouls drawn. Los Angeles shot 8. The Raptors didn't feed the ball into the post - especially with Bismack ‘Brick Hands' Biyombo starting. Instead, Raptor perimeter players repeatedly shook defenders, with or without the ball.</p>
<center><iframe src="https://streamable.com/e/zrre?logo=0" width="640" height="360" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen webkitallowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen scrolling="no"></iframe></center>
<p>Somebody send an APB for Paul Pierce's team defensive concepts. Pierce's physical gifts left years ago, but mentally Pierce does not even resemble his <a href="https://www.bulletsforever.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Wizards</a> version. Here, early in the first, the Raptors run a HORNS pick-and-roll action. Clipper fans wet dream over the same action with <span>Chris Paul</span>, <span>Blake Griffin</span> and <span>DeAndre Jordan</span>, which is probably the most ran play for Los Angeles. The Raptors use it against them. While DeMar DeRozan goes right, Griffin and Jordan switch who they guard, which wasn't necessarily poor execution, as it was the easier rotation, but it creates an issue for the Clippers defense. The switched pulled Jordan from the bucket and placed Griffin as the rim protector. Jordan closes well on Scola, forcing the Argentinean to look for all-star <span>Kyle Lowry</span> on the opposite side. Paul denies the easy swing, but a slimmed down Lowry uses his new found aerodynamicism to blow by Paul on a backdoor cut. Griffin, instead of Jordan, rotates for the block. Biyombo receives the easy pass from Lowry for the dunk.</p>
<p>The Clippers rank in the bottom five in rebounding per-game, and allow over 12 offensive rebounds per-game, and this is why. After Clipper guards get beat, Griffin, Jordan or <span>Josh Smith</span> rotate ballside. Upon rotating, especially this close to the basket, Pierce must cover Blake's man, Biyombo. Pierce opts for watching instead of rotating. Frequently this season, the weakside defender has not rotated properly. Against Portland - and others - the guards in Lowry's place shoot instead of passing, which leads to Biyombo's position underneath the basket, unmarked. Upon a miss, its an easy rebound and put back. Opponents average over 14 second chance points-per-game against the Clippers. For this to improve, the weakside defender has to help inside better.</p>
<center><iframe src="https://streamable.com/e/xktk?logo=0" width="640" height="360" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen webkitallowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen scrolling="no"></iframe></center>
<p>What absolutely terrible effort. There is no excuse for Blake here. Maybe you could say Blake should let Scola take the three. Fine. Then Blake should pack the paint, not trot like a pooch at the Westminster Kennel Club dog show. Blake closed out upright, not representing any semblance of an athletic, defensive stance. If Scola wanted to, he could have driven by Griffin no problem.</p>
<center><iframe src="https://streamable.com/e/bv9e?logo=0" width="640" height="360" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen webkitallowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen scrolling="no"></iframe></center>
<p>A few possessions later, Scola gets the ball at the same spot. Blake minorly increases his effort, but closes out poorly again. He's too vertical and then bites on a <span>Luis Scola</span> pumpfake. One possesion Blake deems Scola unworthy of any attention behind the lane, later he's jumping at the threat of the three. Blake Griffin, take notes on what an extended range can do for you.</p>
<p>After the pumpfake, Scola drives over the middle. Redick feigns help, but does not impede Scola's path. Another sign of laziness. Now, the Clippers are in the same conundrum as the first GIF. Jordan steps up and Biyombo finds a void. Pierce perfectly reenacts his first GIF performance as well, deciding to stand in purgatory instead of guarding neither the corner nor help. Jordan does not leave his feet on the first pass, opposed to Griffin last GIF, and has the slight chance of contesting Biyombo's shot. Instead, he watched.</p>
<p>On one play, four Clipper defenders committed minimal effort. The Clippers let the Raptors do what they want. Any spot the Raptors wanted to go, and by all means, the Clippers let them.</p>
<p>
</p>
<center><iframe src="https://streamable.com/e/xdxw?logo=0" width="640" height="360" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen webkitallowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen scrolling="no"></iframe></center>
<p>The Clippers changed defensive schemes over the summer. Well, as the season progressed they've slowly adapted a new style - switching on screens. Here, early in the second, the Clippers switch three times in nine seconds. <span>Austin Rivers</span> and Griffin switch on an early Terrence Ross-James Johnson screen. Switching provides benefits. The NBA champion <a href="https://www.goldenstateofmind.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Warriors</a> switch fantastically. However, switching just to switch, like this play, does nothing. The Warriors aggressively switch. The Clippers lazily switch. Starting each possession, players guard somebody they assume to matchup well with. Aggressively switching forces ball handlers to step back or maybe throw an errant pass. In this case, the Rivers-Griffin switch provides zero benefits for the defense. Rivers allowed himself to get screened and called for the switch. It's a shortcut. Rivers, and the Clippers organization, said guards would fight over screens. In the first half, they did not.</p>
<p>The problem with switching is offenses can create mismatches. A better coached team possibly finds the 6' 9'' Johnson on the 6' 4" Rivers. An iso-oriented Raptors offense used switches to get better match-ups. Early in the game, a few times, <span>DeMarre Carroll</span> scored on Griffin following switches. The other switch in this sequence has <span>Wesley Johnson</span> and Luc Mbah a Moute change between guarding <span>Patrick Patterson</span> and DeMar DeRozan. From my knowledge, this switch isn't a terrible idea - Mbah a Moute is a strong defender. Although, the switch tickles DeRozan's iso-fancy. Right away the former USC stud sizes up the former UCLA stud. DeRozan draws a foul and shoots free throws, 2 of his 14 on the game.</p>
<p>Instead of letting the action come to them, the Clippers played more aggressive defense in the next half, catalyzed by the Clipper guards.</p>
<center><iframe src="https://streamable.com/e/1ssr?logo=0" width="640" height="360" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen webkitallowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen scrolling="no"></iframe></center>
<p>4:07 remaining in the third, the Clippers executed one of their better overall defensive sequences. Jamal fouled at the end, but a lot of good happened. Chris fights over the screen and recovers quickly. DJ ICEs Lowry well, staying close enough to discourage a shot but stays low and doesn't allow a driving angle. Both Paul and Jordan actively use their hands, deterring the pass back to Scola. Redick, being the first help option on a baseline drive, checks a cutting Carroll. On Lowry's kickout, Jamal rotates to the ball, instead of expecting somebody else to help, Crawford's closeout could be better, but does run <span>Cory Joseph</span> off the line. Joseph drives and Jordan steps up. Earlier, when Jordan stepped up, the baseline pass was open. This time, Redick and Paul mind the gap. Joseph passes to Lowry and Crawford bites on the pump fake, fouling in the process. Fortunately it was a non-shooting foul.</p>
<p>The Clippers held the Raptors to 8 points in the third quarter. The Raptors shot 4-of-22 because of vastly improved rotations and effort, giving the Clippers a chance late.</p>
<center><iframe src="https://streamable.com/e/3idd?logo=0" width="640" height="360" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen webkitallowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen scrolling="no"></iframe></center>
<p>Chris Paul and Austin Rivers lead the defensive intensity. This season, through 13 games, Rivers astoundingly holds offenders to shooting 9-percent worse than their season average. Lateral quickness and technique thwarted him previously. Now, he's arguably the Clippers best defensive wing. Confidence translates to both the defensive side and offensive. 11:11 remaining in the fourth, Rivers guards Joseph just past the halfcourt line. By doing so, Rivers slows the Raptors offensive initiation. Creating chaos, Josh Smith plays the passing lane, and almost comes away with a steal. Patrick Patterson gazes upon an open lane briefly, before Austin Rivers jumps in front, while Jordan lurks in the back, causing a ball reversal. DeRozan dribbles baseline, then cut off by Wesley Johnson. DeDozan steps through but WeJo's length and a Josh Smith help tie up the ball, generating a Clippers fast break.</p>
<p>A few times this play, Clipper defenders were beat. Smith and Johnson both needed teammates briefly. Rather than letting helpers handle the ball, Smith and Johnson got back in the play, creating Raptor uncomfortability. Earlier in the game, Clippers faded out of plays. In the third and fourth, defenders hustled back in.</p>
<center><iframe src="https://streamable.com/e/0sc4?logo=0" width="640" height="360" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen webkitallowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen scrolling="no"></iframe></center>
<p>The crowds alive! Spending most of their Sunday as quiet as a church congregation during sermon, the fans finally have reason to cheer. Down 6 after being down as much as 29, momentum's on the Clippers side. Austin Rivers denies being screened, fights back into Lowry's body, forcing a challenging shot.</p>
<p>In a symbolistic representation of the Clippers season, Rivers doesn't finish the play. He watches the shot and doesn't box out Lowry. Lowry misses the second chance shot.</p>
<p>The symbolic representation didn't end with the Rivers missed box out. No. It continued to the missed Smith three. The Clippers fortuitously catch a break with both Lowry missed, but shoot themselves in the foot with terrible shot selection. This might be the quintessential play of the 6-7 Clippers season. Spoiler, the Raptors went on a 10-2 after the game got within 6 points.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>A desolate Clippers team struggles to piece together strong 48-minute performances. The complete answer for team success might not exist in the Raptors game, but the game at least provided clues for success going forward, and it starts with effort.</p>
https://www.clipsnation.com/2015/11/23/9781632/film-room-the-difference-effort-makesCaden Kinard2015-11-22T16:55:39-08:002015-11-22T16:55:39-08:00Clips Lose 91-80 to Raptors After Awful 1st Half
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/7HGD_7Df3k1btaJH51ypdNwl9uc=/0x54:3109x2127/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/47719485/usa-today-8945264.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The Clippers played one of the worst halves of NBA basketball I have seen from a non-76er or Laker team in quite some time Sunday afternoon, falling behind 63-34 at halftime. A valiant effort in the 2nd half by the bench brought the Clippers back into the game, but they never got over the hump and lost by double digits. This was a bad one folks.</p> <p><b>Game Summary:</b></p>
<p>I am not going to go blow for blow in the 1st half because it was just that bad. The <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.clipsnation.com/">Clippers</a> jumped out to a quick 11-6 lead before the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.raptorshq.com/">Raptors</a> went on a rest-of-the-half 57-23 stretch. The only reason the Clippers kept it close at all early was due to the play of JJ Redick, who had a dozen points in the first quarter. <span>DeAndre Jordan</span> also had a dunk or two, but nobody else could get anything going. The Raptors meanwhile scored time and again, getting whatever looks they wanted and drawing numerous fouls in the process.</p>
<p>The second quarter was even worse. The bench was listless and looked completely out of sync. Doc tried the little used Luc Mbah Moute, and even though he had some energy on defense, his lack of playing time showed in his inability to play in the offense. <span>Jamal Crawford</span> was missing shots, <span>Austin Rivers</span> was missing shots, and the Clippers didn't make a field goal for over 7 minutes. The Raptors just kept plugging away, mostly through <span>Luis Scola</span> and <span>DeMarre Carroll</span>, who were their two best players today. If the Raptors missed, they would get an offensive rebound and score again. Doc got so desperate that he put in <span>Lance Stephenson</span>, much to the delight of the crowd and Clippers twitter. Sadly, Lance picked up 3 fouls in 5 minutes and only contributed 1 steal. He made several nice cuts to the rim, but Chris Paul's passes were to the corner, which is where <span>Paul Pierce</span> or Redick would normally be. More playing time would have helped in those situations. In the meantime, the Raptors' lead grew and grew, and by halftime the Clippers were in an extraordinary 29 point deficit.</p>
<p>To their credit, the Clippers fought back. It was all about the defense, as they limited the Raptors to only 8 points in the 3rd quarter. CP3 and then Austin were very aggressive in picking up and defending the Toronto point guards, who were unable to get into their sets. For most of the quarter the Raptors' lead was still hovering at around 24 for one simple reason: the Clippers couldn't do anything on offense either. The bench unit of Rivers-Jamal-Wes Johnson- Josh Smith- DJ finally started getting not only stops, but turnovers as well. This in turn lead to fastbreaks and several wide open dunks. The lead was down to 16 and the Clippers had all the momentum going into the fourth quarter.</p>
<p>That same bench unit started the quarter and absolutely dominated the Raptors' bench, who just couldn't do anything on offense (they didn't score from 11:34 to 6:31). <span>Blake Griffin</span> came in for DJ at the 10 minute mark and the chipping away continued, but the Clippers offense was still too ineffective to make up ground quickly. The closest they ever reached was at the 7:30 mark when Wes drained a 3 after a gorgeous defensive stop and Austin assist. Around that time the Raptors put their starters back in, the lead went up to 10, and it remained in that range for the rest of the game. Meanwhile, Doc went with a CP3-Jamal-JJ-Blake-DJ lineup for the rest of the contest, which was a little questionable because of how cold Jamal was. The Clippers defense remained tight, but their terrible shooting down the stretch killed them, and they never closed the gap.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Notes:</b></p>
<p><b>Awful Shooting: </b>The Clippers were abysmal on offense, shooting at a 39% clip from the field and 21 from three. The Raptors were somehow worse, as they put up marks of 37.2 and 23.5 (on way fewer three attempts). The Clippers primary guards off the bench, Austin Rivers and Jamal Crawford, were 4-16 from the field and 0-9 from three. It was horrible all around offense, especially in the 2nd half when the Raptors joined the Clippers in a general inability to throw a rock into the ocean. The only Clippers' players to shoot 50% or better from the field were Wes, DJ, and Mbah Moute (1-1).</p>
<p><b>A Slow Blake Griffin: </b>There were no injury reports on Blake and he was a full go, but he never looked right in this game. His left leg injury from Portland was probably still bothering him as he was passive attacking the basket and on the glass. Blake was slow enough that Luis Scola- age 35 and never the fleetest of foot- took him off the dribble multiple times. Hopefully another day or two off gets him somewhat healthier, because Blake playing at an MVP level was the one thing going right with this season so far.</p>
<p><b>Clippers' Killers: </b>Speaking of Luis Scola, he was absolutely murderous tonight. He only had 20 and 8 on 8-16 shooting, but every time he scored it either stopped a Clippers run or piled on top of them at the end of the shot clock. DeAndre seemed very hesitant to leave the paint against him, yet Scola's most lasting specialty has been his great midrange jumper. There must have been a bad scouting report, or DJ was very unaware of who he was guarding. The other Toronto hero/Clipper villain was DeMarre Carroll, who poured in 21 in the 1st half and was everywhere on defense. He was kept under wraps in the 2nd half, but continued to make plays, whether through steals, drawing offensive fouls, or getting offensive rebounds. He would look amazing in a Clippers jersey, I can say that much.</p>
<p><b>Good Bench Play: </b>Well, good play in the 2nd half anyway. The key to the Clippers run was a three man bench squad of Austin-Wes-Josh (along with DJ) who played tight defense and got out in transition for easy buckets. The difference in athleticism between them and the starters was amazing, as the Raptors were unable to get open at all and struggled to get shots off. The bad news is that the bench was not any better at scoring the ball, as Josh joined Jamal and Austin in terrible shooting nights. A special shout out to Wesley Johnson, however, who made 2 of 3 actual three point attempts (the other two were end of quarter heaves), and has been the Clippers' best wing player so far this season. All three of these guys need more minutes.</p>
<p><b>Paul Pierce: </b>I want Pierce to get a few games off. Yes, it is early in the season and he isn't injured, but he just looks slow and hesitant right now, and some time away from the court might help. He was 0-2 tonight in 19 minutes, contributing a mere two points and one rebound in that span. The Truth appeared to be cooked, as DeMarre Carroll roasted him on defense time and again for easy baskets (as he did last year in the Wizards-Hawks playoff series by the way). As mentioned ad nauseum, Pierce was brought here for the playoffs and his locker room presence. I am sure he is a positive influence in the locker room, but his minutes right now are not good for the team. Wes has been an unequivocally better player so far and should be in the starting lineup, or at least get a lot more minutes.</p>
<p><b>DJ Comes Back: </b>DJ was inconsistent, but his high points were magnificent. He switched onto Kyle Lowry one on one in the 4th quarter and forced him out of bounds after staying with him for several jukes and dribbles; just one of several instances of superb defense. He had 5 blocks, and should have had another on a poor goaltending call in the first quarter. DJ also collected 15 rebounds and skied for some over Bismack Biyombo and Scola. It was a nice effort, and his contributions at the pivot were crucial for the bench units run in the late 3rd and early 4th quarters.</p>
<p><b>Point Guard Matchup Disappoints (on offense): </b>Chris Paul and Kyle Lowry were both poor today, neither making a good percentage of shots or having a real impact on the game. Paul still doesn't appear to be 100% healthy, but he was very good defensively on Lowry, especially in the 2nd half, and his shooting is suffering more than anything else. Lowry was off tonight, and looked bothered by Paul and Austin Rivers at times. It was a mediocre showing for two of the better point guards in the NBA so far this season.</p>
<p><b>Doc Rivers: </b>The Clippers started extremely flat in this one and remained that way for an entire half. To what extent that is on the coach vs the players is a debate as long-lasting as the NBA. To give credit, the Clippers did come out strong in the 2nd half, and I liked Doc's rotations better tonight than previous nights. I also approved of him trying Lance and Mbah Moute. I do hope the rotation permanently changes though, with more of Austin, Wes, and Josh Smith, and less of Jamal and Pierce.</p>
<p><b>On to the Next One: </b>The Clippers play Tuesday night at Denver, and every day off gets Blake and Chris closer to full health. The Nuggets play fast under rookie PG Emmanuel Mudiay, and the Clippers will need to bring full effort, especially on the defensive end. After that the Clippers have a six game home stretch with only one back to back. They will need to do very well on that stand in order to make up ground in a shaky Western Conference.</p>
https://www.clipsnation.com/2015/11/22/9779956/atrocious-1st-half-sinks-clippers-who-lose-91-80-to-raptorsRobert Flom2015-11-22T12:15:02-08:002015-11-22T12:15:02-08:00GameThread: Raptors at Clippers
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/qny7m5VPNvqgmI2gyFY-ilytwx8=/0x221:3240x2381/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/47718221/usa-today-8844663.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Anne-Marie Sorvin-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Go Clippers!</p> <table class="sbnu-legacy-content-table" cellspacing="5" border="1" cellpadding="5" align="center"><tbody> <tr><th bgcolor="#ED174C" colspan="3" align="center"><font color="white">2015/2016 NBA Season</font></th></tr> <tr> <td width="240"><center><img src="https://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/4121934/raplogo.0.png"></center></td> <th width="20" align="center"><strong>@</strong></th> <td width="240"><center><img src="https://cdn1.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/4180880/lacballlogo.0.png" height="100" width="100"></center></td> </tr> <tr> <td width="240"><center><strong><a href="https://www.raptorshq.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Toronto Raptors</a> (8-6)</strong></center></td> <th width="20" align="center"></th> <td width="240"><center><strong><a href="https://www.clipsnation.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Los Angeles Clippers</a> (6-6)</strong></center></td> </tr> <tr><td bgcolor="#006BB6" colspan="3" align="center"><font color="white"><strong>November 22, 2015 | 12:30 PM (PDT)</strong></font></td></tr> <tr><td colspan="3" align="center"><strong>Staples Center (Los Angeles, California)</strong></td></tr> <tr><td colspan="3" align="center"><strong>Prime Ticket, TSN2, KFWB 980 AM, KWKW 1330 AM</strong></td></tr> <tr><th bgcolor="#006BB6" colspan="3" align="center"><font color="white">Win-Loss Breakdown (2015-2016 Regular Season)</font></th></tr> <tr> <td width="240" align="right"><strong>4-3</strong></td> <th width="20" align="center">East</th> <td width="240"><strong>1-0</strong></td> </tr> <tr> <td width="240" align="right"><strong>4-3</strong></td> <th width="20" align="center">West</th> <td width="240"><strong>5-6</strong></td> </tr> <tr> <td width="240" align="right"><strong>2-1</strong></td> <th width="20" align="center">Division</th> <td width="240"><strong>3-3</strong></td> </tr> <tr> <td width="240" align="right"><strong>3-1</strong></td> <th width="20" align="center">Home</th> <td width="240"><strong>5-2</strong></td> </tr> <tr> <td width="240" align="right"><strong>5-5</strong></td> <th width="20" align="center">Road</th> <td width="240"><strong>1-4</strong></td> </tr> <tr> <td width="240" align="right"><strong>4-5</strong></td> <th width="20" align="center">.500 +</th> <td width="240"><strong>4-4</strong></td> </tr> <tr> <td width="240" align="right"><strong>4-1</strong></td> <th width="20" align="center">- .500</th> <td width="240"><strong>2-2</strong></td> </tr> <tr> <td width="240" align="right"><strong>0-0</strong></td> <th width="20" align="center">OT</th> <td width="240"><strong>0-0</strong></td> </tr> <tr> <td width="240" align="right"><strong>4-6</strong></td> <th width="20" align="center">L10</th> <td width="240"><strong>4-6</strong></td> </tr> <tr><th bgcolor="#006BB6" colspan="3" align="center"><font color="white">Projected Starters</font></th></tr> <tr> <td width="240" bgcolor="#FFD700" align="right"><strong><span>Kyle Lowry</span></strong></td> <th width="20" align="center">PG</th> <td bgcolor="#FFD700" width="240"><strong><span>Chris Paul</span></strong></td> </tr> <tr> <td width="240" align="right"><strong><span>DeMar DeRozan</span></strong></td> <th width="20" align="center">SG</th> <td width="240"><strong><span>J.J. Redick</span></strong></td> </tr> <tr> <td width="240" bgcolor="#FFD700" align="right"><strong><span>DeMarre Carroll</span></strong></td> <th width="20" align="center">SF</th> <td bgcolor="#FFD700" width="240"><strong><span>Paul Pierce</span></strong></td> </tr> <tr> <td width="240" align="right"><strong><span>Luis Scola</span></strong></td> <th width="20" align="center">PF</th> <td bgcolor="#FFD700" width="240"><strong><span>Blake Griffin</span></strong></td> </tr> <tr> <td width="240" align="right"><strong><span>Bismack Biyombo</span></strong></td> <th width="20" align="center">C</th> <td width="240"><strong><span>DeAndre Jordan</span></strong></td> </tr> <tr><th align="center" colspan="3" bgcolor="#006BB6"><font color="white">Advanced Stats (2015-2016 Regular Season)</font></th></tr> <tr> <td align="right" width="240"><strong style="text-align: start;">97.7 (24th of 30)</strong></td> <th align="center" width="20">Pace</th> <td width="240"><strong>100.3 (8th of 30)</strong></td> </tr> <tr> <td align="right" width="240"><strong style="text-align: start;">103.7 (7th of 30)</strong></td> <th align="center" width="20">ORtg</th> <td width="240"><strong>105.1 (5th of 30)</strong></td> </tr> <tr> <td align="right" width="240"><strong style="text-align: start;">100.2 (15th of 30)</strong></td> <th align="center" width="20">DRtg</th> <td width="240"><strong>104.9 (23rd of 30)</strong></td> </tr> <tr><th bgcolor="#006BB6" colspan="3" align="center"><strong><font color="white">Injuries/Other</font></strong></th></tr> <tr> <td style="text-align: right;" align="right" width="240"><strong><span>Jonas Valanciunas</span> (Out- broken hand)</strong></td> <th align="center" width="20"></th> <td width="240"><strong><span>Pablo Prigioni</span> (Questionable- illness)</strong></td> </tr> </tbody></table>
<table class="sbnu-legacy-content-table" cellspacing="5" border="1" cellpadding="5" align="center"><tbody> <tr><th bgcolor="#ED174C" colspan="5" align="center"><center><strong><font color="white">Raptors won 2014-15 season series against Clippers; 2-0</font></strong></center></th></tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#006BB6"><center><strong><font color="white">Date</font></strong></center></td> <td bgcolor="#006BB6"><center><strong><font color="white">Venue</font></strong></center></td> <td bgcolor="#006BB6"><center><strong><font color="white">Final</font></strong></center></td> <td bgcolor="#006BB6"><center><strong><font color="white">Clips Nation Recap</font></strong></center></td> <td bgcolor="#006BB6"><center><strong><font color="white">NBA Box Score</font></strong></center></td> </tr> <tr> <td><center><strong>12/27/2014</strong></center></td> <td><center><strong>Los Angeles</strong></center></td> <td><center><strong>Raptors 110, Clippers 98</strong></center></td> <td><center><strong><a target="_blank" href="http://www.clipsnation.com/2014/12/27/7451865/clippers-mauled-by-raptors-110-98"><font color="red">Recap</font></a></strong></center></td> <td><center><strong><a target="_blank" href="http://stats.nba.com/game/#!/0021400443/"><font color="red">Box Score</font></a></strong></center></td> </tr> <tr> <td><center><strong>02/06/2015</strong></center></td> <td><center><strong>Toronto</strong></center></td> <td><center><strong>Raptors 123, Clippers 107</strong></center></td> <td><center><strong><a target="_blank" href="http://www.clipsnation.com/2015/2/6/7994317/clippers-raptors-recap-february-6-2015"><font color="red">Recap</font></a></strong></center></td> <td><center><strong><a target="_blank" href="http://stats.nba.com/game/#!/0021400752/"><font color="red">Box Score</font></a></strong></center></td> </tr> </tbody></table>
<p></p>
<div bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="read-more"> <img width="30" height="24" src="https://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/uploads/blog/sbnu_logo/230/large_raptorshq.com.full.20384.png" align="left"> <font face="Lucida Sans Unicode, Lucida Grande, sans-serif"><strong>Opposition's Blog:</strong> <a target="new" href="http://www.raptorshq.com/">Raptors HQ</a></font> <img width="30" height="24" src="https://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/uploads/blog/sbnu_logo/230/large_raptorshq.com.full.20384.png" align="right"> </div>
https://www.clipsnation.com/2015/11/22/9778974/gamethread-raptors-at-clippersJustin Russo2015-11-21T18:00:02-08:002015-11-21T18:00:02-08:00Clips Take on Feisty Raptors at Home
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/WaZYD1kJ88kJM1MW2xjsELd01qg=/0x96:4300x2963/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/47712419/usa-today-8370590.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Tom Szczerbowski-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The Clippers have not gotten off to a great start in 2015. They have dealt with injuries, new players, and poor shooting all while playing quite a tough schedule. Things should begin to lighten up soon, but first the Clips must defeat a tough Raptors team at home.</p> <table class="sbnu-legacy-content-table" cellspacing="5" border="1" cellpadding="5" align="center">
<tbody>
<tr>
<th bgcolor="#ED174C" colspan="3" align="center"><font color="white">2015/2016 NBA Season</font></th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240"><center><img src="https://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/4121934/raplogo.0.png"></center></td>
<th width="20" align="center"><b>@</b></th>
<td width="240"><center><img src="https://cdn1.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/4180880/lacballlogo.0.png"></center></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240"><center><b>8-6</b></center></td>
<th width="20" align="center"><br></th>
<td width="240"><center><b>6-6</b></center></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td bgcolor="#006BB6" colspan="3" align="center"><font color="white"><b>November 22, 2015 | 12:30 PM (PDT)</b></font></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="3" align="center"><b>Staples Center (Los Angeles, California)</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="3" align="center"><b>Prime Ticket, TSN2, KFWB 980 AM, KWKW 1330 AM</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th bgcolor="#006BB6" colspan="3" align="center"><font color="white">Win-Loss Breakdown (2015-2016 Regular Season)</font></th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><b>4-3</b></td>
<th width="20" align="center">East</th>
<td width="240">1-0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><b>4-3</b></td>
<th width="20" align="center">West</th>
<td width="240"><b>5-6</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><b>2-1</b></td>
<th width="20" align="center">Division</th>
<td width="240"><b>3-3</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><b>3-1</b></td>
<th width="20" align="center">Home</th>
<td width="240"><b>5-2</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><b>5-5</b></td>
<th width="20" align="center">Road</th>
<td width="240"><b>1-4</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><b>4-5</b></td>
<th width="20" align="center">.500 +</th>
<td width="240"><b>4-4</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><b>4-1</b></td>
<th width="20" align="center">- .500</th>
<td width="240"><b>2-2</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><b>0-0</b></td>
<th width="20" align="center">OT</th>
<td width="240"><b>0-0</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><b>4-6</b></td>
<th width="20" align="center">L10</th>
<td width="240"><b>4-6</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th bgcolor="#006BB6" colspan="3" align="center"><font color="white">Projected Starters</font></th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" bgcolor="#FFD700" align="right"><b><span>K</span>yle Lowry</b></td>
<th width="20" align="center">PG</th>
<td bgcolor="#FFD700" width="240"><b><span>C</span>hris Paul</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><b><span>D</span>eMar DeRozan</b></td>
<th width="20" align="center">SG</th>
<td bgcolor="#FFD700" width="240"><b><span>J</span>J Redick</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" bgcolor="#FFD700" align="right"><b><span>D</span>eMarre Carroll</b></td>
<th width="20" align="center">SF</th>
<td width="240"><b><span>P</span>aul Pierce</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" bgcolor="#FFD700" align="right"><b>Luis Scola</b></td>
<th width="20" align="center">PF</th>
<td width="240"><b><span>B</span>lake Griffin</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><b>Bismack Biyombo</b></td>
<th width="20" align="center">C</th>
<td width="240">DeAndre Jordan</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th align="center" colspan="3" bgcolor="#006BB6"><font color="white">Advanced Stats (2015-2016 Regular Season)</font></th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="right" width="240"><b style="text-align: start; ">97.7 (24th of 30)</b></td>
<th align="center" width="20">Pace</th>
<td width="240"><b>100.3 (8th of 30)</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="right" width="240"><b style="text-align: start; ">103.7 (7th of 30)</b></td>
<th align="center" width="20">ORtg</th>
<td width="240"><b>105.1 (5th of 30)</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="right" width="240"><b style="text-align: start; ">100.2 (15th of 30)</b></td>
<th align="center" width="20">DRtg</th>
<td width="240"><b>104.9 (23rd of 30)</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th bgcolor="#006BB6" colspan="3" align="center"><b><font color="white">Injuries/Other</font></b></th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: right;" align="right" width="240">Jonas Valanciunas (Out- broken hand)</td>
<th align="center" width="20"><br></th>
<td width="240">Pablo Prigioni (Questionable- illness)<b></b>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<table class="sbnu-legacy-content-table" cellspacing="5" border="1" cellpadding="5" align="center">
<tbody>
<tr>
<th bgcolor="#ED174C" colspan="5" align="center"><center><b><font color="white">Raptors won 2014-15 season series against Clippers; 2-0</font></b></center></th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td bgcolor="#006BB6"><center><b><font color="white">Date</font></b></center></td>
<td bgcolor="#006BB6"><center><b><font color="white">Venue</font></b></center></td>
<td bgcolor="#006BB6"><center><b><font color="white">Final</font></b></center></td>
<td bgcolor="#006BB6"><center><b><font color="white">Clips Nation Recap</font></b></center></td>
<td bgcolor="#006BB6"><center><b><font color="white">NBA Box Score</font></b></center></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><center><b>12/27/2014</b></center></td>
<td><center><b>Los Angeles</b></center></td>
<td><center><b>Raptors 110, Clippers 98</b></center></td>
<td><center><b><a target="_blank" href="http://www.clipsnation.com/2014/12/27/7451865/clippers-mauled-by-raptors-110-98"><font color="red">Recap</font></a></b></center></td>
<td><center><b><a target="_blank" href="http://stats.nba.com/game/#!/0021400443/"><font color="red">Box Score</font></a></b></center></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><center><b>02/06/2015</b></center></td>
<td><center><b>Toronto</b></center></td>
<td><center><b>Raptors 123, Clippers 107</b></center></td>
<td><center><b><a target="_blank" href="http://www.clipsnation.com/2015/2/6/7994317/clippers-raptors-recap-february-6-2015"><font color="red">Recap</font></a></b></center></td>
<td><center><b><a target="_blank" href="http://stats.nba.com/game/#!/0021400752/"><font color="red">Box Score</font></a></b></center></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p> </p>
<p><b>The State of the Clippers</b>- Not great, Bob. Injuries to Chris Paul and JJ Redick have kept the Clippers from clicking so far, though now that they are healthy perhaps the Clips can get on a roll. Blake Griffin is still doing great, but he has been practically working alone. Yes, players like Austin Rivers and Wes Johnson have played well in limited minutes, but they (usually) aren't the kind of players who will really win you games. Meanwhile, Jamal Crawford and Paul Pierce look every bit of their upper 30s age, struggling to get to the basket or play even semi-effective defense. Doc Rivers has continued to play them, though the better player of the younger guys might force Doc's hand sooner rather than later.</p>
<p><b>The Toronto Drizzy Drakes</b>- The Raptors have played pretty well to start the season, racking up several decent road wins (at Boston, OKC, and Dallas) and losing a couple tight games to tough squads like the Warriors and Jazz. Unfortunately, starting center Jonas Valanciunas broke his hand last night against the Lakers and is likely out for a while. This will mean a lot more playing time for one dimensional players like Luis Scola and Bismack Biyombo, which is bad for the Raptors. The good news is that a now skinny Kyle Lowry is tearing up the NBA, and Toronto's new bench players have played pretty well so far.</p>
<p><b>The Metrics- </b>Both teams are strong offensively and mediocre or worse on the other end. The Clippers have missed Chris Paul, usually one of the best defenders at the point guard position, especially since a lot of his minutes have been filled by the king of the matador defense; Jamal Crawford. The Clippers must improve on defense, especially since they nominally have quite a few average to plus defenders, including preseason favorite for Defensive Player of the Year DeAndre Jordan. The Raptors are towards the bottom of the league in terms of pace, a curious choice for a team brimming with athletes, but might speed up now that Valanciunas is gone.</p>
<p><b>Replacing Valanciunas- </b>The Clippers know all about trying to plug holes in the starting lineup and how difficult it can be. The Raptors will now face the same challenge with their starting center out. Luis Scola has been starting at PF for the Raptors as well as playing some small ball five, but he is already at 25 minutes a game or so and probably can't handle much more. The most logical replacement is Bismack Biyombo, but he is a polar opposite from Jonas in terms of style of play. Unlike Valanciunas, who likes to post on the block and make plays, Biyombo only gets the ball on offense for a wide open dunk, and even then is liable to bobble the pass. However, he is a hugely athletic and terrifying rim protector who averaged 4 blocks per 36 minutes last year, and can swing games on that end. Expect his minutes to jump dramatically, perhaps with a little increase for Patrick Patterson- the stretch four out of Kentucky-as well.</p>
<p><b>Quick Ain't Fair- </b>Kyle Lowry has notably been pudgy for much of his NBA career, and was a very effective player despite the extra baggage. Reports came out of training camp that he had lost a lot of weight, but dozens of players and coaches say that every year without anything really coming of it. Well, not this time. Lowry is getting to the line over 6 times a game, by far a career high, and is lightning quick darting to the basket. At the same time, he is knocking down 41.5% of his threes, also a career high, and is throwing in over 2.5 steals to top it off. In other words, Chris Paul is going to have his hands full.</p>
<p><b>Blake Griffin's Knee- </b>Blake briefly left the game against the Trailblazers on Friday night with a non-contact knee injury. He returned shortly, and despite not quite looking like his usual self still acquitted himself well. Since nothing else has come out about the injury, I think it is safe to assume that he is good to go for this one.</p>
<p><b>JJ Returns-</b> After missing a few games with back pain, JJ Redick came back for the Trailblazers game. While he looked rusty, making only 3-12 shots and 1-5 from deep, his impact on the offensive end is undeniable. As long as he is out on the court, the spacing for Chris and Blake to operate is vastly increased. Hopefully he is able to get going tonight against the sometimes lax off ball defense of DeMar DeRozan.</p>
<p><b>Raptors New Additions Playing Well- </b>The Drakes revamped their roster over the offseason, letting go of bench scorers Greivis Vazquez and Lou Williams as well as long time starter Amir Johnson. DeMarre Carroll hasn't shot the ball well, but his defense and ability to do all the little things has been huge for a Raptors team that has been rather selfish for several years. Luis Scola is a terrible defensive player but has been effective on the offensive end, especially with his new three point shot. Cory Joseph and Biyombo have brought energy and defense to the bench. Sadly, former number one overall pick Anthony Bennett has failed to crack the rotation, and his NBA career looks to be imminently over.</p>
<p><b>Doc Rivers and His Veterans- </b>While Doc is in no danger of losing his job (which is a good thing), for the first time there have been stirrings of national media dissent with his coaching. His inability to recognize that Jamal Crawford and Paul Pierce can't play together on the defensive end has led to some truly brutal stretches, and Pierce in particular has been just awful to start the season. There is plenty of time for the veterans to get their act together, but if they don't start to improve soon, the transfer of minutes to Austin, Wes, and Lance Stephenson should be sped up.</p>
https://www.clipsnation.com/2015/11/21/9775036/clippers-try-to-move-above-500-against-raptors-at-homeRobert Flom