While Paul George was disappointed in his debut with the Los Angeles Clippers, head coach Doc Rivers thought otherwise.
Rives effusively praised his new star despite a 132-127 loss to the New Orleans Pelicans:
“He was sensational,” said Rivers, according to Jovan Buha of The Athletic. “We ran some good stuff for him. … He’s not only a catch-and-shoot guy, he’s a dribble guy. He’s also a post player. He did all three phases of the game offensively.”
George scored a team-high 33 points in 24 minutes of play, shooting 10-of-17 from the floor, 3-of-5 from deep, and a perfect 10-of-10 from the foul line — scoring at all three levels with utmost comfort.
While many are expecting the Clippers to be a monster once George and Kawhi Leonard team up, chances are the two will be staggered due to their minutes limitations and injury/load management for the remainder of the month.
The Clippers will gear up this team until both players are ready to log heavy minutes together, already boasting the best bench in the league and unmatched two-way firepower once both defensive stalwarts take the court together.
A loss to the Pelicans (previously 2-8) won't make fans blush, but such are the growing pains of trading and signing for two players with an injury history. The Clippers are taking the right measures to ensure George and Leonard are ready when the team needs to make a playoff push, and most importantly available in the postseason, where they will be expected to earn their keep.
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