Clippers head coach Tyronn Lue highlighted the performance of Kobe Sanders following Los Angeles’ 103-102 win over Golden State on Monday at Intuit Dome. “I didn’t imagine that, you know, his poise, his ability to understand what we’re doing defensively and offensively… coming the last few weeks, just talking about him shooting his mid-range shot, that’s his best shot,” Lue said.
Lue emphasized Sanders’ impact in Harden’s absence. “With James being down, we had 20 turnovers, but we didn’t have a lot of extra ball handle on the floor, so for him to carry that load, him and KD [Kris Dunn]… I thought was really good.”
The coach also praised Jordan Miller’s contributions alongside Sanders. “His ability to get to the basket, score, get to the free throw line… tonight, they did a great job of switching up their defenses… our guys just handled it, stayed poised,” Lue said.
Lue explained how the team maintained composure in the final minutes. “KD made a big three in the corner, Kobe made a big shot… staying poised and trusting Kawhi and James, they’re going to demand a lot of attention on the floor,” he said. John Collins also contributed key plays down the stretch.
The coach detailed the defensive strategy on the final possession. “Putting Zu on the basketball to make it a tough pass… the other four guys bracketing, switching… having size and length… we did a good job not fouling and making him take a tough shot,” Lue explained. He added that limiting offensive rebounds was crucial: “12 offensive rebounds when they shoot 38% is not too bad.”
Lue noted the Clippers’ defensive adjustments throughout the game. “We were able to take away their slips for layups… staying locked into Steph, not letting his shot-making affect everything else we want to do defensively… I thought our guys did a good job.”
Reflecting on the team’s turnaround since an early-season 6-21 start, Lue cited injuries and adjustments. “Early injuries to Kawhi, Brad, Bogey, DJ… it was hard to finish games. But these last seven, eight games, defensively… we’ve been back in the lab, simplifying, playing to our personnel… it’s been a lot better for us,” he said.
Lue also highlighted the advantage of offensive spacing and pick-and-roll situations. “I love it when they double team the pick and roll. Hit Zu in the pocket… got a lob dunk… four on three on the backside. Easy shot every time. We plan for that every single day,” he said.
The Clippers improved to 13-22, with Kawhi Leonard posting 24 points and 12 rebounds. Sanders scored a career-high 20 points, John Collins added 18, and Kris Dunn contributed 16, helping Los Angeles edge the Warriors despite James Harden’s absence.
