Clippers 2024-25 Season Preview: Life After Paul George and the Quest to Contend
By Yusuf Kose Wed Oct 9, 2024

The Los Angeles Clippers are entering a season of transformation as they embark on the 2024-25 campaign without Paul George, who left for the Philadelphia 76ers this summer. George’s departure officially closes the door on the "213 Era," a five-year span where the Clippers were expected to compete for a title with George and Kawhi Leonard as the cornerstone duo. While the championship dreams of that era were never realized, the Clippers must now pivot and find a new path forward, led by Leonard and former league MVP James Harden.
Harden, who joined the team last season, will take on an expanded role as the Clippers’ secondary star behind Leonard. Though no longer in his prime, Harden can still facilitate and score at a high level, but the pressure will be on the entire roster to fill the void left by George’s consistent 22.6 points per game. Players like Norman Powell, Terance Mann, and Ivica Zubac are likely to see increased offensive responsibilities, while newcomers Derrick Jones Jr. and Mo Bamba add defensive versatility and depth. The Clippers hope their collective efforts can compensate for the loss, with Jones’ perimeter defense and Bamba’s interior presence being key factors.

The offseason also saw the return of Nicolas Batum, who brings valuable experience and versatility to the rotation. However, the health of Leonard and Harden remains the biggest concern, as both stars have battled injuries in recent years. The Clippers’ success will heavily rely on their ability to stay on the court and maintain their level of play throughout the grueling season. Meanwhile, Kevin Porter Jr. 's uncertain role adds another layer of intrigue, as the team evaluates how to integrate him following a year away from the game.

While making the playoffs remains within reach, the Clippers face an uphill battle to contend in a competitive Western Conference. The team's aspirations hinge on a combination of veteran leadership and younger players stepping up to fill the gaps. For a franchise still chasing its first championship, the question remains: can the Clippers defy the odds and make a deep postseason run without George? The 2024-25 season will offer plenty of opportun