NBA Pretenders or Contenders: The Lakers, Nets are for real; Are the 76ers?

NBA Brooklyn Nets Kevin Durant James Harden (Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports)
NBA Brooklyn Nets Kevin Durant James Harden (Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports)
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LA Clippers
LA Clippers Paul George and Kawhi Leonard (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)

NBA Pretenders or Contenders: LA Clippers

ORTG: 117.4 (T-2nd)

DRTG: 110.1 (13th)

NetRTG: 7.3 (4th) 

The LA Clippers are a team that many expected to win the 2020 NBA Championship. Instead, this was a team that blew a 3-1 series lead in the playoffs to the Denver Nuggets as they were eliminated well before many expected.

After what transpired in the playoffs last season, it’s not surprising to see many doubt this team. Though Paul George and Kawhi Leonard have been on a tear to start this season and have the look of players that are on a mission to quiet the naysayers.

I believe the Clippers are a better team when they’re being doubted and that’s exactly what’s happening this season, especially as all the attention and spotlight remains on the defending champions.

Verdict: Contenders