Clippers encounter adversity: Harden's dreams and dilemmas
On the battlefield of the NBA, every team has its own legends and challenges. However, for the Los Angeles Clippers, the recent results have left fans with heavy hearts. On February 26, Beijing time, they played at home but lost to their opponents, and this defeat once again highlighted the team's problems.
Since Harden joined the Clippers and Willis volunteered to be a substitute, the team has shown a good performance, climbing from the top 10 in the West to the championship position. However, the defeats in the last few key matches are cause for concern. Facing dark horses in the West such as the Timberwolves and Thunder, the Clippers lost the game and conceded more than 20 points. Such a performance can't help but raise questions about the strength of the team.
As one of the core of the team, Harden has an annual salary of 35.6 million and joined the Clippers to pursue the dream of a championship. However, in recent games, his performances have not been as good as they could be. Despite the data handed over, the performance at critical moments was worrying. As a result, the team's ranking has also slipped, and the top four positions have begun to waver.
The Clippers have obvious shortcomings on the inside, which directly affects the team's competitiveness. The lack of a strong inside player has led to the team's inability to step up at critical moments. And the decisions of the team's management do not seem to be effective in solving this problem.
When the team faced strong opponents, there was clearly a problem with the coach's tactical arrangement. Tyronn Lue's post-All-Star adjustment didn't bring good results, but instead put the players in a difficult situation. The frequent changes in player rotation have made the whole team lose its form.
Harden and Leonard, as the core of the team, should have been a perfect match. However, in recent games, the tacit understanding between the two has been insufficient. This is also indirectly reflected in the team's predicament. Their fit requires more run-in and understanding.
For the Clippers, the current predicament is not without a solution. It is up to the coaching staff and players to work together to find the right tactical system for the team and strengthen the complement of the interior strength. Only through the hard work and cooperation of the whole team can the hope of winning the championship be regained.
Although Harden's dream seems more and more distant, as long as he doesn't give up on working hard, there will always be a chance to turn the tables. After all, the charm of the game of basketball lies in its uncertainty, as long as there is a dream, it is possible to achieve it. It is hoped that the Clippers can find a breakthrough in the predicament, regain the confidence to win the championship, and bring more surprises and hope to the fans.