Popular podcaster and media personality Bill Simmons was one of the 19,370 fans present at the Crypto.com Arena to witness the clash between the Los Angeles Clippers and Philadelphia 76ers. As Simmons returned from the game, he decided to film himself reacting to the Clippers’ 107-121 loss. In the video published on his Youtube, Simmons sheds light on the importance of Russell Westbrook on the Los Angeles team roster.
With the Philadelphia 76ers missing crucial players like Joel Embiid, Kyle Lowry and Robert Covington, the Los Angeles Clippers were expected to defend their territory by earning a victory against the Philadelphia team. However, that did not seem to be the case. In fact, the Clippers did not even represent much of a threat during the 48 minutes of the duel in which there were no lead changes and 3 ties.
Kawhi Leonard and Norman Powell had some decent performances, recording 20 points each, for NBA.com. But the combined contribution of 71 points from Tyrese Maxey, Tobias Harris and Cameron Payne resulted in Ty Lue’s boys suffering their fifth loss in eight games.
After witnessing the 14-point loss from the stands, Bill Simmons identified the main reason for the recent drop in quality of the Los Angeles team. According to the 54-year-old coach, Russell Westbrook’s absence hurts the team.
“What’s wrong with the Clippers?… I’ll tell you what’s wrong with them. They miss Russell Westbrook. Yes, Russell Westbrook, the guy who spent two years with the Lakers.
” Simmons said.
Elaborating on the same, Simmons explained that Russ would help the team with the infectious energy he brings to the game.
In addition to motivating his players, the point guard also enraged the fans, giving life to the game. Despite playing a lesser role since being moved to the bench, Simmons believes the nine-time All-Star was one of the team’s most valuable players.
“They need Russell Westbrook, they need his energy, they need his offensive rebounds, they need him for games like today, when the entire team looks lethargic and seems like they don’t want to be there. Then Westbrook comes in and he’s flying like he has seven Red Bulls doing a lot of things, getting the crowd back into the game and changing it…he could be one of the most valuable players on the team.” Simmons explained.
Russell Westbrook was having a pretty respectable season, coming off the bench and averaging 11.1 points, 5.1 rebounds and 4.4 assists per game, per game. basketball reference. However, on day 1street In March, the 2017 MVP broke his left hand and has been out since then. While there is no mention of a set timeline for his return, the Clippers coaching staff hopes the athletic guard can return to the lineup before the playoffs begin.
After having a near-perfect performance before the All-Star break, the Clippers’ standing in the standings has taken a hit amid their 1-8 streak against winning teams since the season resumed. The same team that was competing for the No. 1 seed in the West is now 0.5 games away from falling to the No. 5 seed.
