Los Angeles Clippers: 2017-18 player grades for DeAndre Jordan
By Evan Massey
Strengths
In 2017-18, Jordan averaged 12.0 points, 15.2 rebounds and 0.9 blocks per game. He didn’t step up as much on the offensive end as some were hoping and his blocks decreased from 1.7 per game in 2016-17. Despite the stats not living up to what some were expecting, Jordan is still a dangerous weapon on both ends of the court.
His ability to rebound was showcased this season and that alone makes him an extremely valuable asset. While his defense may not look as good as it has been in years past on paper, Jordan is still a more than capable rim defender. Jordan also shot 64.5 percent from the field overall, which showed that he is still able to get easy buckets off of passes at the rim and off of offensive rebounds.
Even without living up to his full potential in those two main areas, Jordan is one of the most feared centers in the league. Standing in at 6’11” and 265 pounds, Jordan possesses incredible athleticism. He still has at least a few more seasons playing in his prime.
Without Jordan, the Clippers would not have had a chance at finishing with a winning record. Following the Griffin trade, the team simply would not have been nearly as good without its star center on the court.