Paul George takes accountability for LA Clippers losing record: “I am more than capable of going out and performing and willing our team to wins"
LA Clippers star Paul George has taken ownership for the team's poor start to the season.
The Clippers currently have a 3-4 record. They came into this season with great expectations, but things haven't gone according to plan. The returning Kawhi Leonard has played only two games, which has contributed to their slow start.
However, they still have a capable star in Paul George to lead the charge in Leonard's absence. George weighed in on this, saying (via Tomer Azarly):
"I take full responsibility for us and our record right now, not getting off to the starts... Regardless, like I have been saying, regardless of who is in the lineup, who’s not, I am more than capable of going out and performing and willing our team to wins."
George delivered for the LA Clippers in their 95-93 win over the Houston Rockets on Monday. He tallied 35 points, nine rebounds, eight assists, six steals and two blocks, shooting 57.7% from the field and 5-of-10 from 3-point range. The guard capped off his brilliant outing with the game-tying and game-winning shots.
PAUL GEORGE IS CLUTCH 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 https://t.co/oXoo6v6lsz
The LA Clippers have one of the deepest rosters in the league but haven't been able to string together a winning run with Kawhi Leonard sidelined.
Leonard returned after a year-long absence due to an ACL injury. However, after experiencing stiffness in his surgically repaired knee, the Clippers have kept him out for five games. The latest reports coming out of LA suggest he will miss their next four too.
"I take full responsibility for us and our record right now, not getting off to the starts... Regardless, like I have been saying, regardless of who is in the lineup, who’s not, I am more than capable of going out and performing and willing our team to wins."
- Paul George https://t.co/hF2tuIhA2d
Paul George's form key to LA Clippers being successful in Kawhi Leonard's absence
The LA Clippers have the luxury of having two #1 options in their ranks in Kawhi Leonard and Paul George. The latter accepted that he will be the #2 when the two play together but seemed confident about leading the team in Leonard's absence.
It seems like the Clippers will need George to steer their ship frequently during the regular season, at least. LA's handling of Leonard's return indicates that the franchise will be cautious with him for longer than expected.
George had to don the hat as the #1 option during his time with the Indiana Pacers and OKC Thunder. So he certainly doesn't lack the experience or talent to get the job done.
Ty Lue is asked if that is the Paul George the Clippers need: “Hell yeah! Right now while we are struggling… tonight was huge.”
Paul George is an MVP-caliber player in his day but needs to be more consistent to impact the team's winning percentage. The performance he put together against the Rockets seemed like a good start. The Clippers will be hoping George continues to thrive like this moving forward.