Something special is brewing in L.A., and Kawhi is leading the charge

This Clippers team looks like the real deal.

Year after year, they’ve kept trying new pieces to see what can make it all work, such as Serge Ibaka, Norm Powell, and Luke Kennard in 2020. Then, in 2022, they brought in Russell Westbrook, John Wall, Eric Gordon, and Terrance Mann. But that year only resulted in a 4-1 beatdown by the Suns in a quick and brutal first-round playoff exit. 

But here we are yet again talking about another Clippers variety who seem real enough to carve out a brand new story, one that could perhaps make history by bringing home their first ever NBA Championship. It’s impossible to predict what the Clippers will or won’t do months from now.

But from what we’ve seen in 52 games, and going by their current form, it’s hard not to look at them as Championship threats. Bookies are bullish and have them at $7 to win the title behind Boston, Denver, and Milwaukee  

If you look at the championship teams of the last five years—the Nuggets, Warriors, Bucks, Lakers, and Raptors—they all had a gnostic team style and were led by one superstar at the core. On a recent 13-day road trip, the Los Angeles Clippers went 6-1, beating Championship contenders the Celtics plus the Heat and Hawks. Clippers coach Tyronn Lue said after the Hawks win, "It was a total team effort.” 

Whatever path they are on, the Clippers need to stay on course. Whatever wasn’t working, they have figured it out. And whatever they're doing now, it’s clearly working.