The Los Angeles Clippers are largely dismissed from the ranks of title contention, and I'd agree with that assessment. Last year, they finished with a 2.6 point differential—a far cry from what you'd expect from a contending team.
We forget so quickly, but the Clippers were perceived as title-worthy not long ago, before "Lob City" gave way to the derisive nickname "Flop City." Dreams of an alley-oop trapeze display gave way to the cold reality of DeAndre Jordan missing defensive rotations and Vinny Del Negro feebly screeching at opposing shooters from the sideline.
We have all adjusted our expectations according to events. Few believe in a team that actually shouldn't be any worse than last year—at the very least. Some are underwhelmed by Blake Griffin in the aftermath of last season, and many are disenchanted with DeAndre Jordan's performance on D. The rational among us don't fault Chris Paul, after he delivered yet another transcendent season.
My contention is that this squad should be contending, based on the players involved. If we pick apart this roster, deride its depth and dismiss Griffin's defense, we're miss ...
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Article written by Ethan Sherwood Strauss
Vinny Del Negro Stands Between L.A. Clippers and Title Contention
October 16th, 2012 by Ethan Sherwood Strauss Leave a reply »
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