"They won this offseason and I don't even think it's close" - Kendrick Perkins on surprising Western Conference contenders, highlights their versatility and loaded roster
After a relatively active offseason, former NBA champion Kendrick Perkins believes that the LA Clippers have one of the best squads this summer.
Since the end of the Lob City era, the Clippers have struggled to establish themselves as contenders. However, since acquiring the likes of Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, the franchise has looked rejuvenated to say the least.
Although the LA Clippers haven't had much success of late, next season could be a whole different ballgame. With several moves made to improve their roster strength, the Clippers look like contenders. They have roped in Moussa Diabate and five-time All-Star John Wall
Speaking about the Clippers' offseason activities on NBA Today, Perkins said:
"When you look at the Los Angeles Clippers, they won this offseason and I don't even think it's close. When you talk about the most important position in the NBA, the wing position, they are loaded with them. From Paul George to Kawhi Leonard to Robert Covington to Nicolas Batum - they have Norman Powell."
Perkins went on to highlight the pieces available at the Clippers' disposal. They are expected to have a heated battle over the starting point guard slot between Reggie Jackson and John Wall. It will give them depth on the roster.
Perkins lauded the Clippers' depth and said they have the most loaded roster in the league.
"And I'm looking at this team and I'm like, I don't know a team that's more versatile than the Los Angeles Clippers and they have a loaded roster."
He added:
"They've brought everyone back. They're going to get healthy. I don't understand how they didn't get an A-plus. They was a team that was supposed to get an A-plus."
"When you look at the Los Angeles Clippers, they won this offseason and I don't even think it's close."
@KendrickPerkins believes Kawhi Leonard and Paul George's squad won the summer 👀
https://t.co/tRlYo9COU2
Is Kendrick Perkins right to consider the LA Clippers title contenders?
The Clippers have been among the favorites ever since Kawhi Leonard and Paul George paired up in LA, but they've failed to live up to expectations.
The roster has undergone numerous changes in the past few years and they may finally be back in a position to compete.
Despite having several issues with regards to the health and quality of their roster last season, the Clippers managed to generate a net rating of 0. This speaks volumes of their offensive and defensive integrity instilled by the coaching staff.
my God look at this defense and 2 way action from the la clippers. wings galore. https://t.co/FPfH7H0doh
Having a backup point guard in either John Wall or Reggie Jackson gives the Clippers unbelievable depth at the 1.
.@JohnWall is on the grind. 💪 https://t.co/EpKBLmCfrh
With Kawhi Leonard also returning from injury, the LA Clippers appear to be a force to be reckoned with on paper. Should injuries and other problems remain a non-factor, the Clippers could definitely be viewed as title favorites.
Kawhi's been in the weight room 😳
(h/t @TomerAzarly, @kristinf34_, via @LAClippers) https://t.co/2Shqz3HHj8