The Los Angeles Clippers are preparing for a major offensive transformation in the 2024-25 NBA season by adding Chris Paul to a roster already featuring James Harden. After finishing fifth in the conference last season thanks largely to their strong defense, the team aims to address their middling fifteenth-ranked offense through the combined playmaking of Paul and Harden.
With the acquisition of Chris Paul, the Clippers can now expect to field two of the league’s best facilitators simultaneously, increasing the pressure on opposing defenses around the rim and creating extensive scoring opportunities for their big men.
Creating an Offensive System Built on Rim Aggression
James Harden continues to be one of the NBA’s elite half-court playmakers, averaging 8.7 assists per game while managing the Clippers’ offense last season. Although Chris Paul is 40 years old, he remains exceptional in controlling possessions, boasting an excellent assist-to-turnover ratio and demonstrating clutch performance. Paul’s anticipated reduction in minutes should help him stay fresher and more effective.
The combination of Harden and Paul offers a formidable offensive engine capable of orchestrating a high-pressure attack. They excel at driving to the basket and kicking the ball out to shooters, while also possessing the ability to moderate the pace when necessary. This dual-guide approach not only enhances the team’s overall effectiveness but also benefits interior scorers by generating increased opportunities near the rim.
Ivica Zubac Positioned as the Ideal Interior Scorer
Center Ivica Zubac enjoyed a standout season previously, proving to be a key asset inside. Unlike primary offensive creators, Zubac’s role focuses on receiving precise passes, protecting the paint, and finishing efficiently. With Harding and Paul directing play, Zubac is expected to receive consistent high and low feeds to capitalize on scoring chances.
This framework should result in Zubac securing more easy baskets, second-chance points, and dominating in offensive rebounds. As a skilled screener, he perfectly complements the pick-and-roll tactics operated by two of the league’s best point guards, adding another layer to the Clippers’ offensive versatility.
Floor Spacers John Collins and Brook Lopez Enhance Offensive Depth
John Collins quietly established himself as a 40% three-point shooter last season, while veteran Brook Lopez has made over 130 three-pointers each of the last three years. Their presence alongside Paul or Harden on the floor stretches opposing defenses, creating much-needed spacing.
Collins is effective in pick-and-pop situations and moves intelligently off the ball, while Lopez offers a combination of deep shooting threat and physical screening. This duo provides the Clippers with unique flexibility, allowing Paul and Harden to punish defensive lapses, exploit mismatches, and dictate the terms of play either by collapsing the paint or forcing defenders to guard the perimeter.
Derrick Jones Jr. Primed to Exploit Transition Opportunities
Derrick Jones Jr. may not be the focus of designed plays, but his explosive athleticism and finishing ability shine in transition. What he needs most is a reliable playmaker to locate him during fast breaks and secondary transition moments. Paul and Harden fit this role perfectly, capable of delivering accurate feeds on baseline cuts or after rebounds.
Jones’ ability to finish lobs and capitalize on quick scoring chances can be a valuable asset as the Clippers lean on Harden’s and Paul’s experience to apply relentless pressure on opposing defenses throughout the entire game. Although both playmakers are past their physical peaks, their leadership and command of the floor should compel opponents to maintain unwavering discipline for 48 minutes.
This fresh offensive approach, powered by elite playmaking and complemented by versatile shooters and finishers, could mark a pivotal shift for the Clippers as they seek to advance further in the postseason by maximizing their Chris Paul Clippers offensive impact.