A few months ago, it seemed like the Los Angeles Clippers had a shot of becoming the top team in the Western Conference.
After years of false starts and disappointing injuries, the team was healthy with Kawhi Leonard, Paul George, James Harden, Russell Westbrook, and others finally performing well together.
They have experienced some tough times lately, although they remain the fourth seed in the West.
Erik Slater pointed out a “concerning” trend about the Clippers.
On Twitter, he noted that the team is 29th in defensive rating over their last 22 games.
During that time, the Clippers have gone 10-12.
You wanna talk about concerning trends around the NBA?
The Clippers are 29th in defensive rating over their last 22 games (10-12).
— Erik Slater (@erikslater_) March 27, 2024
During this period, the Clippers have been defeated by teams like the Sacramento Kings, Los Angeles Lakers, Minnesota Timberwolves, New Orleans Pelicans, and more.
In other words, they have been outplayed by many of the teams they could be facing in the playoffs.
The good news for the Clippers is that they have a couple of weeks to get on the right track before the postseason kicks off in April.
Additionally, Westbrook just returned after an absence due to injury.
His time away proved that he adds a lot to the team, including with all defensive plans.
He could help them fix the problems they have been experiencing lately.
The Clippers are about to go on a four-game road trip against the Philadelphia 76ers, Orlando Magic, Charlotte Hornets, and Sacramento Kings.
Then there will be just seven more games before the playoffs.
The Clippers are still in a good position, healthy, and capable of winning a lot.
But some bad habits are popping up that have fans concerned.
If the Clippers wish to finally have the sort of postseason that will make their fanbase proud, they will need to remedy their defensive woes as soon as possible.
NEXT: Russell Westbrook Reveals Message To Teammates Amid Rough Patch