Indiana Pacers vs Los Angeles Clippers: Preseason Preview
Indiana Pacers vs Los Angeles Clippers
May 19, 2012; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Clippers point guard Chris Paul (3) in the second half of game three of the Western Conference semi finals of the 2012 NBA Playoffs against the San Antonio Spurs at the Staples Center. San Antonio Spurs won 96-86. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-US PRESSWIRE
Los Angeles Clippers Off Season Recap
The Clippers made some good moves this off season depending on how you look at things. Lamar Odom seemed happy to be playing back in Los Angeles, so that should make him a better player for the Clippers. Chauncey Billups comes back for another year to prove his worth to the team. Billups hasn’t been the same player since his days in Detroit, but he’s got something left in the tank. The back court gets some improvement with the signing of Jamal Crawford, who gives plenty of scoring punch. The Clippers solidify their big man position by bringing in a couple of guys, Ronny Turiaf and Ryan Hollins. Two big guys who weren’t utilized much with their previous teams, but should get plenty of work with the Clippers. Saving the best move for last would be the contract extension to Blake Griffith. This keeps him as a Clipper for the next five years. Pairing him with Chris Paul was good for the team, and will be good for the next few years.
This is a team that won their first playoff series in a while, and look to improve upon that. Will they catch the other LA team? I don’t think that happens, but they can make their own great season happen with another winning season and getting something going in the playoffs.
Indiana Pacers vs Los Angeles Clippers Match up
This is a great match up of two teams who want to prove their worth. The Pacers off the success of last season, and the Clippers in the same boat. I think both teams want some credit for what they did. The Clippers have to contend with the Lakers for the attention of Los Angeles, while the Pacers have to contend with the nation to get some attention.
I like the match up as it has great players all around. Blake Griffith and Roy Hibbert are both stars for their teams. Plus you have Paul George, a slam dunk guy, going up against Blake Griffith, a stand out dunker as well. Then you have the point guards of George Hill and Chris Paul. Two point guards that look to lead their team in all areas.
The teams met one team last year, where things got a little physical, which I think messed with Blake Griffith’s head. He seemed to shy away from contact once he was getting some action on him. I’d expect some of the same as the Pacers will want to continue that hard nosed effort. Should be a fantastic couple of games between the teams, and I say the teams split the series. Too bad we probably won’t see them meet in the post season, so enjoy the regular season meetings.