Western Conference Playoff Tour: Clippers, if the core lineup is 5 years younger, the league will usher in the Terminator

In this year's Western Conference Championship team arms race, the Los Angeles Clippers also attracted much attention. Management Hi-Tech renewed the contract with the backcourt core James Harden. This former MVP led the team with a single core last season with Leonard absent last season, averaging 22.8 points, 5.8 rebounds, 8.7 assists and 1.5 steals per game, which is almost the best season after leaving the Rockets. In the new season, Harden will continue to control the overall situation as the "Still-Standard Needle" in the Clippers' backcourt.

In addition, the team has continuously "picked up" two former All-Star guards, Bill and Paul, have enhanced the strength of the paper lineup a lot. Although Bill was unacceptable to the situation during his joining the Suns, he still averaged 17 points, 3.3 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 1.1 steals per game, and his shooting percentage remained at a relatively high level. At the age of 32, he is in his year of playing. The Clippers dare to trade the third scorer Powell in the team, which is largely due to the protection of Bill's joining on the offensive end.

"Old Gunner" Paul's output on the offensive end has continued to decline in recent years, but he is still old in terms of organization, and he can average 7.4 assists per game, and his three-point shooting percentage from the outside is 37%. As Harden's substitute and leading the second team to maintain offensive firepower and stability on the court is a very good choice.

The transaction was obtained as a space power forward Collins, leaving behind 3D veteran Batum. Judging from the lineup configuration, the Clippers seem to have all the conditions to win the championship. They are not weak in strength in each position and have a strong balance in offense and defense.

However, the biggest problem with the Clippers is the aging of the core lineup. The two absolute main players of Harden and Leonard are both nearly 35 years old and are still suffering from injuries. Batum is 36 years old on the bench and Paul is 40 years old. If this lineup can be younger, with Paul and Harden in the Rockets era, Leonard in the Raptors era, and Bill in the Wizards era, then the league may begin a dynasty era that belongs to the Clippers.