Stephen A. Smith criticises the LA Clippers for their performances during the 2022-23 NBA season

The LA Clippers were touted to be one of the best team’s in the NBA prior to the start of the 2022-23 NBA season. However, mid-way through the campaign, Ty Lue’s men have only been able to maintain a 22-22 record and are seventh in the West. Despite having players like Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, the Clippers have not looked like the contenders everyone expected them to be. NBA analyst Stephen A. Smith criticised the roster and stated that coach Ty Lue should want out of the team if they failed to be ready come the playoffs.

Paul George and Kawhi Leonard have only played 15 games together this season. Although the team have others like John Wall, Reggie Jackson, Norman Powell and Ivica Zubac, who can contribute, their performances have been below par. The Western Conference is wide open, and the LA Clippers’ form could soon see them slip down in the standings. Speaking about the franchise and their troubles, Smith ranted on “The First Take,” saying:

“The Clippers are legitimate if they are playing. I’m so personally disgusted with the Clippers that I believe that Ty Lue should want out of his contract with the LA Clippers if these dudes ain’t ready for the playoffs. It’s a damn shame that you literally walk in, let’s understand the greatness of Ty Lue, he literally walks to an arena every day wondering who the hell he’ll have in his lineup, no one is definitively available.”

Can the LA Clippers come out of the Western Conference?

The LA Clippers have one of the best rosters in the NBA. Led by Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, the team from Hollywood have depth in all positions on the court. Many expected them to come out all guns blazing from the first tip-off. However, things have not gone as planned for them and a lot of that has been due to the availability issues among their players.

The 22-22 record does look a little concerning, but the LA Clippers are an experienced side, who have players like Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, both of whom are great two-way talents. One of the biggest threats for the Clippers is however the way teams are playing this season in the West. Phoenix Suns, Golden State Warriors and LA Lakers are all in the bottom half of the standings, but could make a surge at any point.

If the LA Clippers continue their poor run of form, they could face any of these teams in the first round and that could be a tough task for any side in the NBA. Ty Lue is a coach that has championship experience. He is well-versed in making adjustments and the playoffs are the stage where he has shown his true calibre. Eventually, all that matters is the postseason, but the LA Clippers will have to be prepared as the West looks a little tricky to come out of this season.

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