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The Los Angeles Clippers will have a very tough task at hand as they face the top-seeded Utah Jazz in the second round. Quin Snyder's team is gritty on both ends and just like the Clippers, they rely on efficient shooting from downtown.
While stopping Rudy Gobert is certainly going to be a key to coming out on top in this series, the Clippers will need their X-factor to show out once again. Kawhi Leonard.
The Claw was brilliant in seven games against the Mavs, averaging 32.1 points, 7.9 boards, and 4.6 assists while also draining 42% of his attempts from three-point land. Kawhi simply wouldn't let LA go down without a fight even after falling into an 0-2 hole early on.
Leonard showed up when it mattered most in Games 6 and 7, combining for 75 points during those two contests. The Clippers star is one of the most clutch players ever on the big stage and he'll need to rise to the occasion vs. Utah if the Clippers are to advance.
Frankly, the Jazz honestly don't have anyone who can really contain Kawhi on the offensive end. His physicality and will to win are unmatched, evident of how he torched Luka Doncic and the Mavs in round one. But he's not just getting it done on the offensive end. Leonard is truly an elite two-way threat who is key to the Clips defense. He will need to be sharp on both ends and will potentially be tasked with guarding the very athletic and shifty Donovan Mitchell.
Paul George needs to step up after a rather uninspiring first round. Reggie Jackson continues to be a nice complementary offensive threat to the Clippers' star duo. But, staying in this series comes down to Kawhi Leonard. He must continue to do what he's always done: compete. It's that simple.
