Orlando Magic is set to hit the Crypto.com arena tomorrow morning to go head to head with Los Angeles Clippers in an NBA regular season game.
The Los Angeles Clippers have got off to a successful start this season, bagging two victories out of their first three games. The key focus was the triumphant match against the Spurs with a score of 123–83. The main stars of the match were Kawhi Leonard, who scored 21 points, and Paul George with 19 points, 5 assists and 5 steals. Russel Westbrook and Bones Hyland also made significant contributions, each tossing in 19 and 18 points respectively. As a team, the Clippers showcased fine accuracy, achieving a 51% success rate and sinking 16 three-pointers out of 42 attempts. Asserting dominance early on in the game, the Clippers held Spurs to no more than 37 points before the break. Meanwhile, the Clippers' star trio of Leonard, George, and Westbrook delivered impressive performances, each collecting 19+ points. Although the team often faces criticism for its resting players, the headline stars hit the court in each of the season's opening games.
George is making impressive strides this season, averaging 27.3 points per game. Leonard, with his long list of accolades, is racking up 23 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 5 assists per game. Despite Westbrook being less prolific now than in his peak years, his contribution to the team remains valuable. Ivica Zubac and Robert Covington are also adding to the team's success, though the latter is yet to find his shooting rhythm. Bones Hyland and Norman Powell have stepped up from the bench, significantly contributing to the team's overall performance.
The Clippers have got off to a promising start this season, and they are in good rhythm, currently holding the 15th spot for pace in the league. P.S. HARDEN HAS BEEN TRADED TO THE CLIPPERS! The team gave away all role players for the ageing 34-year-old star. Apart from the veteran stars, the Clippers lack supporting players.
Orlando began their season with two victories over the Rockets and Trail Blazers. Despite a confident start, they suffered a defeat against the Lakers with a score of 103:106. In this match, Gary Harris was in strong form, scoring 17 points, including five three-pointers. Franz Wagner made his mark, adding 16 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists. Jalen Suggs and Markelle Fultz also had strong games, scoring 15 and 14 points respectively. In its opening matches, Magic has shown impressive results, particularly considering the youth of its squad. Wagner led the scoring in the first two games, averaging 21 points per match. Cole Anthony, who has extended his contract with the team, averaged 19 points per game. The reigning rookie of the year, Paolo Banchero, also stepped up, averaging 13 points per game.
At the start of the season, Orlando regularly deployed a consistent starting lineup. Playing at centre, Wendell Carter Jr. was averaging 8 points and 8.5 rebounds per game. Big man Moritz Wagner and guard Gary Harris have made their contributions, playing crucial minutes in the matches. Currently, Orlando's team play style features a slow pace of offence.
The Clippers have won both of their previous regular season meetings with Magic.
Magic is missing several key players, including Kevon Harris, whereas the Clippers have Terence Mann out, and Norman Powell's participation is uncertain due to leg issues. The line-up will also be without Nicolas Batum, Morris and another role player. Despite their strong performance against the Lakers, Magic face a tough challenge, playing back to back against the impressive Clippers. Orlando will have to deal with the Clippers' dominant players less than 24 hours after their face-off with the Lakers. Their guards may experience some difficulties in attempts to hold back Kawhi Leonard and Paul George. Despite these hurdles, I'm placing my bet on TU, given the Clippers' largely reduced roster.
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