If the Clippers lost to the Suns last night, it is essentially because they played with their B team, or even C. Judge instead: Kawhi Leonard (right knee), James Harden (right foot), Paul George ( left knee) and Russell Westbrook (left hand) were absent. Even Ivica Zubac and Norman Powell were rested. Result: Tyronn Lue lined up his usual substitutes in the middle, while Terance Mann only played the first minutes before going to rest, and this is rich in lessons for the head coach.
“It was good to see Bones (Hyland) and Brandon (Boston Jr.) take the opportunity to play, and play at a high level. I just see these guys having a chance to play. I thought PJ (Tucker) was good, I didn't want to bring him back (after the first quarter), but he did a great job as well. believes Tyronn Lue.
Among the usual understudies, it was Bones Hyland who seized his chance the best, since he had his best career match. In 43 minutes, the former Nuggets leader compiled 37 points, shooting 15/29 including 6/12 from distance. He added 4 rebounds, 9 assists and 3 steals.
Best scorer of the match, he was already at 30 points in the third quarter, 6/6 from 3-point range.
A breath of fresh air for Bones Hyland
“Like I said, they stood up to the Suns, embarrassed them and gave it their all. We had a chance, but in the end the match slipped through our fingers. We couldn't take a shot anymore. I think the guys were tired”continues the Clippers coach. “I think Bones played the whole second half alongside Brandon. »
Bones Hyland in any case took advantage of the opportunity to show his full offensive range. Aggressive from the start of the match towards the circle, he also proved that he could hit the mark from afar, and best serve his teammates.
“He can shoot 3-pointers off the dribble, he can go to the basket with floaters, and he's quick to get past his defender. He can score in three possible ways: 3-point, mid-range and he can also finish at the rim,” analyzes Tyronn Lue. “He had 3-point shots, which then allowed him to open up lanes to penetrate and go to the basket. »
In short, it is a reassuring performance. Both for the player who is experiencing his most complicated season since his arrival in the NBA in 2021. It is also reassuring for his coach, who notes that he can count on him as a “joker” in anticipation of the playoffs, and from the first round against the Mavericks.
