The 2023-24 Los Angeles Clippers By Category

When it comes to putting points on the board for the Los Angeles Clippers in the 2023-24 season, one name stands out prominently—Kawhi Leonard. He is averaging 24.0 points per game on 51.8% from the field and 43.2% from three-point range while also being a threat in post-up situations thanks to his strong body and basketball IQ.

The icing on the cake is Leonard's proficiency at the free-throw line, where he boasts an impressive 87.7% accuracy as he hovers close to 50-40-90 shooting percentages. While his running mate, Paul George, contributes with an impressive 23.5 points per game, Leonard's offensive impact has been evident this season, making him the standout offensive player for the Clippers.

Playmaking - James Harden

The playmaking spotlight falls squarely on the dynamic skills of James Harden. Appearing in 32 games this season, Harden has not only embraced but excelled in his role as a facilitator for his teammates. Harden is leading the charge with an impressive average of 8.4 assists per game as he continues to show his commitment to being a pass-first player.

As he has matured in his career, the former scoring maestro has evolved into a playmaker par excellence. This transformation was already evident during his tenure with the Philadelphia 76ers last season, where his playmaking prowess played a pivotal role in Joel Embiid's scoring title and MVP accolades.

Taking on the role of the team's point guard, Harden has seamlessly integrated himself into being the creator for the Clippers and his 2.7 turnovers per game average also shows he is not turnover-prone either. The Clippers have performed well this season not only because of Leonard’s offense but also because Harden’s playmaking has elevated the team’s offense to rank 9th in the league.

Rebounding - Ivica Zubac

The Los Angeles Clippers have found a reliable anchor in the towering presence of Ivica Zubac over the past few seasons. Standing at an imposing 7’0” tall, Zubac has emerged as the go-to big man for the Clippers, playing a crucial role in securing possessions and controlling the glass. The Clippers' frontcourt has faced challenges this season, with Mason Plumlee sidelined due to injury (8 games played), and the recently acquired Daniel Theis settling into a backup role with limited minutes (16.6 MPG).

Averaging 9.7 rebounds per game, Zubac has proven himself to be a relentless force under the rim. Having completed six seasons with the Clippers, he understands the nuances of his position and has become an integral part of the Clippers rotation which leads to greater team chemistry and a reliable presence when it comes to patrolling the paint.

Defense - Kawhi Leonard

When it comes to defense for the Los Angeles Clippers, Kawhi Leonard assumes a pivotal role when it comes to pure basketball IQ. Even beyond the eye test, Leonard is putting up solid defensive statistics of 1.7 steals and 0.8 blocks per game this season.

As a former two-time Defensive Player of the Year awardee, Leonard's defensive acumen has been seen all season long and he has been the driving force behind the Clippers’ 9th-ranked defense. Paul George is also an elite defender this season (1.6 SPG, 0.4 BPG) and Ivica Zubac can block shots (1.4 BPG), but Leonard has been a defensive difference-maker.

3-Point Shooting - Kawhi Leonard

Kawhi Leonard takes center stage with a sharpshooting display from beyond in 2023-24. This season, he boasts an impressive 43.2% accuracy from beyond the arc, sinking 2.3 triples per game out of 5.3 attempts. While Norman Powell may sport a slightly higher percentage at 45.5%, Leonard's volume and efficiency make him the primary long-range threat for the team.

As the leading scorer, Leonard's ability to consistently generate points from downtown gives him a clear edge in this category, reinforcing his significance in the Clippers' offensive arsenal. It is interesting to note that Paul George (41.4%) and James Harden (42.6%) have also been efficient from three so the Clippers are getting their big guns to shoot high percentages which could explain their excellent record so far (24-13).

Finishing - Kawhi Leonard

When it comes to finishing at the basket, Kawhi Leonard emerges as a consistent force for the Los Angeles Clippers. While Harden dazzles with his mesmerizing dribble moves and George can soar over defenders, Leonard brings a different dimension with his formidable physique. The moment Leonard sees an open lane, it's almost a certainty that he'll finish with efficiency.

Despite the spotlight on his shooting, Leonard's proficiency around the rim, whether attacking or posting up, is a quietly potent weapon in his offensive arsenal. It is hard to stop the steel-built player when he is near the basket and that might contribute to his excellent 51.8% from the field as the team’s leading scorer.

Athleticism - Paul George

In the realm of athleticism for the Los Angeles Clippers, Paul George stands out as a force to be reckoned with. While Leonard may claim the title of the team's strongest player, George brings a unique blend of incredible vertical ability and quickness to the court. George's athleticism isn't just about raw power; it's about finesse and speed, evident in his quick maneuvers both with the ball in his hands and in transition.

At a formidable 6'8" and 220 lbs, George's elite athleticism not only makes him a dynamic player but also positions him as a prime candidate for poster-worthy plays, showcasing his ability to “elevate the Clippers” both vertically and figuratively. George is carving out a Hall of Fame career and his athleticism has a lot to do with it.

Clutch - Kawhi Leonard

When the game is on the line, and the Clippers need someone to step up and deliver, Kawhi Leonard is the unequivocal go-to guy. In clutch situations, trust becomes the currency, and Leonard has earned every bit of it. While Harden has shown flashes of brilliance in the regular season, his playoff track record raises doubts about his reliability in closing games. George, an elite scorer in his own right, isn't the current number-one option, and Russell Westbrook, despite his dynamism, operates as a sixth man.

This leaves Leonard, the proven closer and the best pure shooter on the team, to take the reins. With two Finals MVP awards under his belt as the linchpin of two championship teams, Leonard's ability to deliver in high-pressure situations is not just a luxury for the Clippers; it's a defining element of their championship aspirations. If Leonard doesn’t close, the Clippers might not have a chance to achieve their goals.

Efficiency - Kawhi Leonard

As the team's top scorer, Kawhi Leonard showcases a remarkable blend of productivity and precision. Shooting at an impressive 51.8% from the field, 43.2% from beyond the arc, and 87.7% from the free-throw line, he is close to being a member of the 50-40-90 club. Adding to this efficiency, Leonard maintains tight control of the ball with just 1.6 turnovers per game.

What sets Leonard apart is not just his ability to score, but how he does it. Always in control and never rushed, he exemplifies efficiency on the court. It is rare to see Leonard take bad shots, play out of control, or make bad decisions. Kawhi oozes efficiency which is why he is the best two-way player on the team.

Leadership - Kawhi Leonard

The leadership category for the Clippers is a complicated one. Kawhi Leonard is often injured and absent due to load management, Paul George is a talented player but hasn’t convinced that he can be a true leader, and James Harden has developed a reputation as a chemistry killer. While Russell Westbrook has leadership traits including confidence and a vocal presence, he has been relegated to a role player as he has aged.

That means Leonard has to be considered the leader of the team. The Clippers can achieve their goals if Leonard plays and are forgettable without him. As the best two-way player on the team with efficient shooting numbers, Kawhi is the star of the show and he has to be considered the leader even if there are doubts about that position.

Versatility - Paul George

Leonard is the best player offensively and defensively when it comes to scoring and playing defense but George can do multiple things at a very high level. George is posting 23.5 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game while also adding 1.6 steals and 0.4 blocks per game. George can literally do it all on the court from crashing the boards to being a go-to playmaker as needed.

As one of the smoothest players in the league, George’s arsenal is complete because he is an elite ball-handler, scorer, defender, and all-around talent. As the second-best player on the team, there is plenty riding on George’s health because he needs to be there to support Kawhi Leonard and James Harden in their quest to win an NBA championship.

Handles - James Harden

James Harden is one of the best ball-handlers in NBA history, regardless of his age this season. At 34 years old, The Beard is still an elite player with the ball in his hands and his ability to go into his package and stun defenders leads him to generate points (17.3) and assists (8.4( this season. Credit should go to George who is a fantastic ball-handler but Harden has to edge him.

A player like Russell Westbrook should also be mentioned because he is posting 4.6 assists per game as a sixth-man and while he is criticized for his turnover-prone style of play, he is one of the greatest point guards of his generation. Regardless, Harden has the best handles and some of his moves are downright beautiful to watch.

Underrated - Norman Powell

Amidst the star-studded roster of the Clippers, Norman Powell has become one of the team's most underrated assets. Currently the fourth leading scorer on the team behind the Big Three, Powell is notching an impressive 13.4 points per game, displaying efficiency with a shooting split of 49.3% from the field, 45.5% from beyond the arc, and a stellar 89.8% from the free-throw line. 

Despite not registering a single start in 37 games, Powell has been a consistent and vital contributor to the Clippers' standout season. A versatile player, he is equally adept at defending as he is at putting up points. Whether spotting up for shots or creating scoring opportunities for himself, Powell's offensive prowess and defensive capabilities make him a multifaceted threat.

Overrated - Terance Mann

The Clippers seem to love Terance Mann because he plays extremely hard, defends with effort, and hustles for loose balls. He is also a trustworthy playmaker because he moves the ball well and is always ready to shoot the ball as a starter in the Clippers lineup. However, the Clippers have been unwilling to trade Mann for any player which is a tad surprising seeing how inefficient he has been this season.

The 27-year-old isn’t exactly a young prospect anymore and he is posting 7.3 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game as a starter this year. What is most surprising is his shooting numbers which stand at 43.2% from the field, 28.6% from three, and 74.3% from the free-throw line. The 6’5” guard’s impact comes beyond the stat sheet but he hasn’t exactly impressed this season.

Overall - Kawhi Leonard

Overall, Kawhi Leonard is the star of the Clippers and the best player on the team. He is the leading scorer, most reliable defender, and go-to option in the clutch. The fact that the entire season rides on Leonard’s availability, he is also considered the leader of the squad as well. Luckily for Clippers Nation, the forward has been healthy as he has appeared in 33 games and done a fantastic job.

If the Clippers continue their exceptional play and continue to rank top 10 in offense and defense, they will be in a fantastic position to push for the Western Conference Finals and possibly the NBA Finals. As long as Leonard is available to play and contribute on both ends, the Clippers have a chance to achieve their goals which means the former two-time NBA champion is the best player on the team.