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As Lakers “Uncertainty” Looms Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, Is Ty Lue Already Resorting to Load Management?

Published 11/01/2023, 1:58 AM EDT

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USA Today via Reuters

The Los Angeles Clippers boast one of the most star-studded rosters in the league. Furthermore, their recent addition of James Harden has only added to their on-paper dominance. Right off the bat, fans are anticipating the debut of their new superstar. Harden will join the ranks of Kawhi Leonard, Paul George, and Russell Westbrook. He’s already a 10-time All-Star himself and will be sharing the court with future Hall of Famers and former league MVPs.

It is certain that with the Clippers’ well-known approach to load management, Harden’s addition will bolster the franchise’s strategy. However, even though Harden’s official status as a Clipper is still in the works, the load management cycle in LA has already kicked off.

Ty Lue announces major decision regarding Paul George and Leonard

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Following a recent triumph over the Spurs, the Clippers are gearing up for a showdown with their city rivals, the Los Angeles Lakers. While one might expect them to be all fired up to maintain their winning streak, there’s a twist that’s leaving fans scratching their heads. Reports suggest that head coach Ty Lue has announced that their superstar duo, Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, will be sitting out the second half of a back-to-back game.

The 2023 Clippers season is just three games deep. In their recent matchup against the Orlando Magic, the superstar trio logged 33 minutes each. Paul George took charge with an impressive performance, delivering 27 points and securing 7 rebounds.

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Meanwhile, Kawhi Leonard contributed 8 points, and Russell Westbrook chipped in with 18.

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Harden is already in LA

The official confirmation of the James Harden trade is still pending. Depending on the necessary proceedings, Harden may make his debut in the upcoming game against the Los Angeles Lakers tomorrow or in a matchup against the New York Knicks five days from now. Nevertheless, his determination to meet his new teammates is unwavering.

The 10-time All-Star arrived in LA ahead of the Clippers’ game against the Magic. He was accompanied by his teammate P.J. Tucker, who is also part of the trade deal. As they stepped into the Crypto.com Arena, they were warmly welcomed by Clippers owner Steve Ballmer and president of basketball operations Lawrence Frank. After exchanging hugs and handshakes with the franchise’s top brass, the two players head towards the locker room.

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Subsequently, Harden had his first encounter with his future squad. He also reunited with his former teammate, Westbrook.

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Written by:

Saahil Dhillan

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Saahil Dhillan is an NBA Writer at Essentially Sports. He has been writing articles and blogs for 5 years now, including those for a sports brand that manufactures knee braces, for a Red Bull athlete in 2019 and for a documentary of an Ultra Running Coach in 2021. There’s plenty Saahil can write about why he likes basketball, having followed the NBA for more than 10 years, but he is most keen on picking out various offense/defense strategies, on/off-court decisions, roster changes in crunch time and other underrated key elements that leave an impact on the scoreboard.
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Edited by:

Aayush Kapoor