Warriors superstar and player-analyst Draymond Green breaks down Game 1 of the Clippers-Jazz series, says he expects changes from Tyronn Lue
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Game 1 between the Los Angeles Clippers and the Utah Jazz was everything one expected it to be. We saw signs of excellence by the Clippers’ stars, but in the end, it was Donovan Mitchell stealing the show. Spida scored 45 points, 32 of which came in the second half, to lead the Jazz to a Game 1 win.
The Clippers, who just wrapped their 7-game series against the Mavericks on Sunday, came with little to no rest. Jazz, who had wrapped the series against the Grizzlies in 5 games, were well-rested. This clearly showed as the Clippers looked like they were lethargic in the second half. On the other hand, the Jazz were ready to flip the switch.
Draymond Green was watching the entire proceedings, and despite the loss, he believes the Clippers shouldn’t be too worried. The way the Clippers finished the game and cut the 10 point deficit, it was quite commendable.
However, if you are the clippers, you are leaving Game 1 feeling real good about yourself.
— Draymond Green (@Money23Green) June 9, 2021
Draymond Green wants Tyronn Lue to make adjustments
The Clippers in the first half were basically a model of how to play against the Jazz. However, all that fell apart in the third quarter. Donovan Mitchell started getting in the paint, and then there was no stopping him. With Mitchell live and kicking, the rest of the team started heating up too.
According to Draymond Green, the former DPOY and one of the finalists this year for the same, the Clippers’ defense needs some rim protection. As long as they keep the rim exposed, they cannot look to win against this gritty Jazz team.
Donovan taking advantage of the clippers not having any rim protection. Looking forward to seeing T Lue adjustment.
— Draymond Green (@Money23Green) June 9, 2021
The Clippers also need to find someone other than Luke Kennard to guard Mitchell. Maybe Kawhi Leonard or Paul George. In the second half, Mitchell was just toying with Kennard, and that really hurt the Clippers.
There are a lot of adjustments that the Clippers can make, after watching Game 1. What Tyronn Lue and his staff draw up should be interesting to watch. The Clippers face off the Jazz for Game 2 on Thursday.