The Los Angeles Clippers have had a rough summer.
Not only did they part ways with Paul George but they also lost Kawhi Leonard to yet another injury.
Because of that, many fans are nervous about how 2024-25 will look.
But Terance Mann still believes in this team and what it can do.
Speaking with the press and Joey Linn, via NBACentral, Mann claimed that this version of Clippers is “the best defensive team I’ve ever been on in my life.”
He made that claim because of “everybody’s ability to guard the ball one-on-one” as well as their strengths at scrapping, helping, and stealing the ball.
Will this statement be enough to excite worried Clippers fans?
“I think it’s the best defensive team I’ve ever been on in my life.”
– Terance Mann on the new look Clippers
(? @joeylinn_ )
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) October 21, 2024
The Clippers are hoping to exceed expectations, which are currently fairly low.
People were distressed when George left the team and the recent loss of Leonard made them even more nervous.
In order to have a place in the Western Conference, Mann and the rest of the team will need to step up in a big way.
The defense will obviously be a major part of that because a team cannot thrive in the NBA unless they can shut down their opponents.
Defense hasn’t been the Clippers’ strongest feature over the last few years but perhaps head coach Ty Lue has changed his approach, especially because of the eventful summer the team had.
It is good to hear this confidence from Mann, who has remained reliable and consistent over the last several seasons.
His role may grow even more in the new year and he promises to bring the defense.
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