The Los Angeles Clippers secured a 114-107 victory against the Portland Trail Blazers on October 29, 2023, with significant contributions from power forward John Collins. Despite not being a household name in the NBA, Collins showcased his abilities with 16 points, six rebounds, and two steals, shooting an impressive 87.5% from the field and making his only three-point shot.
Tyronn Lue, head coach of the Clippers, emphasized Collins’ vital role in the game. “I loved his energy. When Ivica Zubac was being double-teamed, he did a great job cutting to the basket,” Lue remarked following the game. Collins’ performance during the first three games of the season has drawn attention, as he is currently shooting 64% from the field.
Collins, a first-round draft pick in 2017, joined the Clippers from the Utah Jazz in a three-team trade this summer. He reflected on his progress, attributing much of his success to the support from veteran teammates. “I have a bunch of great motivators who not only talk the talk but walk the walk,” Collins stated.
Among the veteran players, Chris Paul, a 12-time All-Star, has been especially influential. Collins noted, “CP is always in my ear, whether in the moment I’m happy about it or not. He’s just leading me in the right direction.” Paul’s mentorship has been crucial for Collins as he adapts to his new role within the team.
At 6-foot-9 and 226 pounds, Collins offers the Clippers a versatile skill set that has been a challenge for opponents to match. His ability to create space, excel in transition, and contribute on the boards makes him a valuable asset alongside stars like Kawhi Leonard. Lue highlighted, “With a big player like John on the floor, teams have a nightmare as far as matching up.”
Collins’ addition has enhanced the Clippers’ second unit, joining talents like Brook Lopez, Kris Dunn, and Nicolas Batum. He expressed the importance of raising his intensity and being locked in for his teammates. “I want to win, and I feel like just as the competitor I am, I want to win for my teammates as well,” Collins said.
The pressure of playing alongside established stars raises the competitive standard within the team. “The level of the standard for winning and competing just raises guys to play at a high level,” Collins explained. His commitment to improving reflects the shared ambition of the team.
The Clippers are set to face the Golden State Warriors on October 31, 2023, at the Chase Center in San Francisco. Fans will be watching closely to see how Collins continues to develop in his new environment and the impact he has on the team’s performance this season.
