Expectations and Projections: LA Clippers' Starting Lineup for the Next Season

Understanding the Current Landscape

As a devoted follower and enthusiast of the NBA, one cannot help but speculate about upcoming seasons. ESPN’s NBA Depth Charts serves as a valuable tool for gaining insights into the starting lineups of NBA teams. These projections provide a glimpse into the team's strategic planning and player management. However, it’s important to remember that these are only projections and the actual lineup could change over the course of the season.

Projected Starting Lineups

Let’s delve into the projected starting lineups for the Los Angeles Clippers for the upcoming season:

ESPN Projected Starters

PG (Point Guard): Patrick Beverly SF (Shooting Guard): Avery Bradley SF (Small Forward): Danilo Gallinari PF (Power Forward): Tobias Harris C (Center): Marcin Gortat

Author’s Projected Starters

PG (Point Guard): Patrick Beverly SF (Shooting Guard): Avery Bradley SF (Small Forward): Tobias Harris PF (Power Forward): Montrezl Harrell C (Center): Marcin Gortat

I find ESPN’s projections to be nearly accurate. However, it's crucial to acknowledge that this is a projected opening night lineup and numerous factors could influence changes during the season.

Analysis and Justifications

Point Guard - Patrick Beverly

Pat Beverly's experience and defensive prowess are key factors in the starting lineup. While Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the 11th overall pick, shows potential, Beverly retains the advantage of seniority and a track record of effectiveness at the point guard position. The Clippers may prefer to take it slow with Gilgeous-Alexander for the initial part of the season, allowing both Beverly and the rookie to settle into their respective roles before making a strategic swap.

Shooting Guard - Avery Bradley

Avery Bradley is a foregone conclusion for the 2 spot. His defensive abilities and leadership make him an invaluable asset. There appears to be no immediate threat to Bradley's starting role, and his off-the-bench counterpart, Lou Williams, brings significant firepower to the second unit, ensuring consistent offensive output.

Small Forward - Tobias Harris

Tobias Harris fills the small forward position well, evidenced by his shooting proficiency. His 46% field goal rate and 41% three-point accuracy, combined with his athleticism and age, make him a versatile and dynamic player. As opposed to Danilo Gallinari, who is experiencing a period of injuries and reduced effectiveness, maintaining Gallinari’s minutes is logical to preserve his health and maximize his productivity, especially given the demands of a long season.

Power Forward - Montrezl Harrell

Montrezl Harrell's productivity as a bench contributor is undeniable, with 11.0 points and 4.1 rebounds per game from just 17 minutes per contest. His willingness to work on his jump shot could make the tandem with Marcin Gortat highly effective. While Harrell is noted as the second-string center on ESPN’s depth chart, this role may fit his skills and strengths better than a traditional five-man starting lineup, particularly considering his height at 6’8''.

Center - Marcin Gortat

Marcin Gortat's experience and reliability are crucial to the Clippers' success. His ability to contribute defense and rebounding has solidified his position as the top option at the center position. The Gortat/Harrell combination, with proper offensive adjustments, could prove to be a potent duo.

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