Four wins in a row. It's not a championship, but in the grind of an NBA season, a winning streak like this can be a turning point. Here's what I've noticed:
1. The Ball Movement Is Elite Right Now
The Clippers are averaging 28.5 assists per game during this streak, up from their season average of 24.1. The extra pass is becoming a habit, not an exception.
2. The Bench Is Contributing
The second unit outscored opponents' benches in three of the four games. That's a reversal from earlier in the season when the bench was a consistent minus.
3. Free Throw Shooting Has Improved
Small thing, big impact. The team is shooting 81% from the line during the streak, up from 74% in December. Those extra points add up.
4. Transition Defense Is Locked In
The Clippers are allowing just 9.8 fast-break points per game during this stretch. Earlier in the season, that number was closer to 14. Getting back in transition has been a point of emphasis, and it's paying off.
5. The Closing Lineup Is Dominant
The crunch-time lineup has a net rating of +15.2 during the streak. That's elite. When the game tightens up, this group knows how to execute.
The real question is sustainability. Can the Clippers maintain this level of play against tougher competition? The schedule gets harder starting next week, and that will be the true test.
