The Boston Celtics faced the Los Angeles Clippers, or whatever is left of the team, after Kawhi Leonard, James Harden, Norman Powell, and Ivica Zubac sat out the game. Although the Clippers lost in a thrilling matchup, the depleted ranks of this Western team held their own against the reigning NBA champions.
Coffey, DJJ, and KPJ Dancing With the Celtics
The Clippers hosted the visiting Celtics even without their four best players. But, what seemed like an easy win for Boston, turned out to be an “almost” choke job.
Boston was up by two with just ten seconds left in regulation, but after a missed play, Los Angeles was able to push through, forcing overtime. They were, however, able to keep their lead in OT, and eventually win the matchup 117-113.
Amir Coffey, one of the Clippers’ best perimeter defenders, unleashed 24 points while Derrick Jones Jr. also had 29 points. Meanwhile, Kevin Porter Jr. brought out the big guns after recording 26 points, 7 assists, and 7 rebounds.
Jayson Tatum had 24 points, 8 assists, and 7 rebounds but the All-NBA forward was shooting terribly that night. Jaylen Brown gave 25 points, but showed some sloppy play and turned the ball a lot in the final moments that resulted in the Clippers being able to force OT.
What This Game Means for the Clippers and the Celtics
Playing without your four key players is like an automatic defeat, especially when you’re up against a championship contender. But, the Clippers’ deep bench was different.
Being able to go toe-to-toe against Tatum, Brown, and the Celtics is a huge feat for the remaining players of the LA Clippers. Just imagine what more they could do with Harden, Kawhi, Powell, and Zubac on the floor.
On the other hand, this looks like a bad spell for the C’s. In fairness, Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday were also out, but the undermanned Clippers truthfully have no business being able to take on the Celtics.
