Los Angeles Clippers: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has solidified spot in the starting lineup

Less competition for his spot

Of the 12 games that he’s started so far, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been paired with either Patrick Beverley or Avery Bradley, two defensive-minded veteran guards. Whether he plays more off the ball with Beverley or takes command at the 1 with Bradley, Gilgeous-Alexander complements either of the two very well.

Considering how inefficient both of the vets have been offensively this season so far, Gilgeous-Alexander seems to have a starting spot on lock. When Beverley and Bradley were paired together in the starting lineup, the team won just five of their nine games.

While the two are elite defenders and provide a veteran presence, they average a combined 13.8 points per game and shoot under 35 percent from the field. Bradley is shooting a mere 25.0 percent from beyond the arc while Beverley hasn’t been much better at just 30.3 percent.

Both provide leadership and defensive initiative, but lack offensive effectiveness quite severely (at least so far). Furthermore, in addition to being a much better scorer, Gilgeous-Alexander isn’t a bad defender by any means due to his length, maturity and quick hands/feet. This provides even less of a reason to start both Beverley and Bradley at the same time.

Lastly, SGA averages 3.1 assists per contest while Beverley averages 3.8, so the difference isn’t considerable enough to use that as an argument in favor of Beverley. Whatever facet of the game you look at, SGA is virtually guaranteed a starting spot if everyone is healthy because he’s simply been more effective.

Deciding who will join him in the backcourt each night is ultimately coach Rivers’ decision, but Bradley has seemed to work well so far.