The Los Angeles Clippers had a disappointing end to their season, losing to the Houston Rockets in the Western Conference Semifinals after holding a 3-1 series lead. However, it’s clear the Clippers are legitimate title contenders, and they're looking to prove that in 2016. Here are three reasons to be optimistic about their chances at winning a championship this season:
3) Doc Rivers' leadership
Very few teams in the league have coaches better than Doc Rivers, and his championship experience has proved vital in getting the Clippers to this point in their development as a team and as a franchise. He's also one of the few people who can rally a team after their disappointing loss to the Rockets, somehow turning the Clippers into a stronger team in the process.
2) Added depth
The additions of Paul Pierce, Wes Johnson, and Lance Stephenson give the Clippers some much needed wing depth, strengthening what was one of the worst benches in the league last season. Josh Smith will also finally give Los Angeles a third legitimate option to add to their big man rotation, making this the most potent Clippers team ever.
1) Return of core group
Chris Paul, Blake Griffin, and DeAndre Jordan (surprisingly) are all back in the fold and ready to make another run at the title, giving the Clippers one of the most talented cores in the league. Throw in the motivation of wanting revenge for how they were bounced from the playoffs, and that increased level of focus - when paired with their talent - should push them over the top.
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