9. Los Angeles Clippers

By: Lucas Kochevar

​       The Clippers lost their starting point guard in Chris Paul and people do not think they will rebound. But I do. I actually really like this team and its depth. They managed to swindle the Rockets out of an All-Team Defense player in Patrick Beverly and very strong bench pieces. They brought back Blake Griffin on a mega deal and they brought in wing scorer Danilo Gallinari. The Clippers are one of the most underrated teams this year and will be solid. This is their projected starting lineup.

PG: Patrick Beverly
SG: Austin Rivers
SF: Danilo Gallinari
PF: Blake Griffin
C: Deandre Jordan

6th Man: Lou WIlliams

        The PG spot is held by Patrick Beverly and Milos Tedosic, when he is healthy. Beverly is an elite defender and will get in everyone's face. He does not back down from anyone as he is very tenacious. The SG is Austin Rivers since J.J. Redick left. Rivers is a solid option, but he is the weak spot in the starting lineup. The advantage for them is that their backup SG is former sixth man Lou Williams. SF is Gallinari and he is a huge dynamic scorer. He is 6'10, but he can score from any spot on the floor. Blake Griffin will be the rock for this team as he is the lonely superstar now. Griffin has expanded his game and we will get to see what he is like on his own. Jordan is not one of the best centers when it comes to overall talent but he is a perfect rebounder and defender. The Clippers are a very capable playoff team and should be in the playoff race.