Los Angeles Clippers: 3 takeaways from 2017-18 season opener

1. DeAndre Jordan is ready for the next step

Another big question for the Clippers coming into the season was whether DeAndre Jordan was ready to take the next step. He showed against the Lakers that he is indeed ready for a bigger role.

Jordan finished the game with 14 points and 24 rebounds while shooting 5-for-10 from the floor and an impressive 4-for-4 at the foul line. He didn’t block a shot, surprisingly, but is still one of the league’s top rim protectors. Doc Rivers has to be happy with a 20-rebound performance from Jordan and the Clippers should expect to see those monster games on the glass continue.

Moving forward, the Clippers could still use more offense from Jordan. He will not be asked to score 20 points per game, but having a few 20-point nights will be necessary for him. Jordan has struggled from the foul line throughout his career, but 100 percent in his first game is a nice touch.

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Expect to see Jordan continually improving as the season moves along. He has not had to take on such a large role throughout his career, but handled it well in game one. Add a bit more offense to his line and he would have come through with a perfect performance.