Trail Blazers vs Clippers Prediction NBA Picks 10/25
- Lm Tipster
- Oct 25, 2023, 1:16:02 AM
© Jonathan Hui-USA TODAY Sports
Los Angeles Clippers vs. Portland Trail Blazers - Season Opener Preview
Los Angeles; Tuesday, 8:00 p.m. PDT
Spread: Clippers -9.5; Over/Under: 235.5
Introduction
Get ready for a high-stakes matchup as the NBA season begins with the Los Angeles Clippers taking on the Portland Trail Blazers. In this comprehensive preview, we will delve deep into both teams' strengths and weaknesses, focusing on their offensive and defensive capabilities, and explore the factors that might influence the outcome of this game.
Team Breakdowns
Portland Trail Blazers
The Portland Trail Blazers enter this season after a challenging run last year, finishing with a 33-49 record. The struggles in their defensive game were evident, as they allowed an average of 117.4 points per game and committed an average of 20.0 fouls.
Offense
Offensively, the Trail Blazers have undergone significant changes. The departure of Damian Lillard to the Milwaukee Bucks in a blockbuster three-team trade marked the end of an era. In exchange, the Trail Blazers acquired Jrue Holiday from Milwaukee and Deandre Ayton from the Phoenix Suns. Later, they traded Holiday to the Boston Celtics for Malcolm Brogdon, Robert Williams, and a couple of first-round picks.
Portland also drafted Scoot Henderson as the third overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, and the 6-foot-2 combo guard is expected to be a driving force in the Trail Blazers' offense for the 2023-24 season. However, the Trail Blazers will need to address their defensive shortcomings from the previous season.
Defense
Defensively, the Trail Blazers had their share of woes in the 2022-23 season. They had the fourth-worst defensive rating in the league, allowing 118.8 points per 100 possessions. Their defense ranked 28th in field goal percentage (49.1%) and 29th in three-point percentage (37.9%). The arrival of Victor Wembanyama to the Spurs may pose additional challenges in this matchup.
Los Angeles Clippers
The Los Angeles Clippers aim to bounce back this season after a 44-38 regular season and an early exit from the 2023 NBA Playoffs. Injuries to key players, including Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, hampered their championship aspirations.
Offense
The Clippers have taken a low-key approach in the offseason, re-signing Russell Westbrook, who averaged 15.8 points and 7.6 assists in 21 regular-season games with the Clippers in 2022-23. The hopes of the Clippers rest on the shoulders of Leonard and George, who both averaged 23.8 points per game. Their injuries limited their appearances last season, but the team is counting on their health for a successful campaign.
Last season, the Clippers showcased their offensive capabilities, scoring 115.0 points per 100 possessions. They had an impressive three-point shooting percentage, ranking third in the league at 38.1%. Their aim is to maintain offensive efficiency and ensure their superstar duo remains healthy.
Defense
Defensively, the Clippers recognize the need for improvement. They ranked 25th in defensive rating last season. Their opponents shot 35.2% from three-point range, a respectable mark that placed them seventh in the league. However, there is room for improvement in most other defensive statistics.
The Clippers have the potential to be a dominant team this season, but their defensive improvement remains a focal point, especially in a matchup against a revamped Trail Blazers squad.
Injuries
Key players for both teams may have injury concerns. Zach Collins is questionable for the Trail Blazers, while the availability of LeBron James and Anthony Davis for the Lakers remains uncertain.
Prediction
The Los Angeles Clippers enter this game as favorites with a -9.5 point spread, and they have compelling reasons to back that status.
The Clippers are a more experienced and cohesive team compared to the Trail Blazers, who are adjusting to life without Damian Lillard. The departure of their star player may take some time for the Trail Blazers to find their rhythm, giving the Clippers a significant advantage.
With the Clippers' strong offensive capabilities and the potential for improved defense, they are well-positioned to secure a convincing victory and cover the -9.5 point spread. The presence of Kawhi Leonard and Paul George adds a level of stability and scoring power that the Trail Blazers may find challenging to match.
Stay tuned for more thrilling NBA action as the season unfolds. For additional insights and predictions, be sure to check out KingPin.pro's iOS and Android app.
Pick: Clippers -9.5
