The LA Clippers played their first game without Kawhi Leonard Wednesday night, which resulted in a 110-96 loss to the Utah Jazz.
The loss was to be expected — it’s early, but the Jazz defense looks to be the real deal, as it has for the last several years. Thanks in part to Rudy Gobert‘s stifling presence in the paint, Utah has yet to give up 100 points in a game so far this season. LA’s 96 is the most they’ve allowed thus far.
Leonard’s absence was a bit more surprising, but it was bound to happen eventually.