With Kawi Leonard Saga going away from the courts, there is reason to be optimistic in the Los Angeles Clippers courts.
Chris Paul’s homecoming was special for Clippers fans, adding even more star power around Kawi Leonard and James Harden in the form of Bradley Beale.
The duo brings 15 All-Star appearances to LA among them. Paul is not expected to see many court times, but the beer was brought by the Clippers, contributing to the elite’s scoring ability from around him.
Both players, especially Paul, add a wealth of knowledge and experience to the team. It’s already attracting attention from new teammates.
They won’t escape the off-court drama that casts shadows in the Clippers offseason. Uncertainty comes first for star players and owners in the NBA’s investigation of Leonard’s “no-show work.”
But as a media storm swirls, Beal and Paul have been working hard to bring their teams together as the start of a new season approaches. It’s not noticed by their new teammate, Bogdan Bogdanovic.
He told reporters, “It’s an honor to play with guys like Bradley Beal, Chris Paul. You can see the experience. They can definitely help us. I have to say too. Young people have been training hard.
Bogdanovic is gearing up for his second season with the Clippers after averaging 11.4 points per game last year. Paul is a well-known leader in the locker room and can take Bogdanovic to the next level.
That’s the real value Paul brings to this team. He is in his 21st year and can lend his experience to a franchise that has not made a final in its history.
And with everything going on with the Clippers this offseason, a stable hand at the court could be a bounty of salvation.
The Clippers were able to protect their players from questions about Leonard on Media Day, which will be something players and coaches have to deal with throughout the season.
Therefore, it is a difficult task to drive it out of their hearts and focus on the challenges in a stacked Western Conference. If they win, fans can get frustrated with the reports surrounding Leonard. If they lose, they are asked if it is distracting. There’s no going away.
However, Paul is not used to questions like this. He was with the Clippers during Deandre Jordan’s contract SAGA in 2015. Veteran security guards know how to handle the media.
It could be an invaluable resource for experienced players on the roster. Paul’s ability to maintain solidity in the wake of a media storm can teach them valuable lessons, as mandated during difficult seasons.
In that sense, he is worth the weight of gold.