INGLEWOOD — The Clippers have seven guards on their roster this season. Some primarily handle the ball, and others shoot the ball. Then, there is Kris Dunn, who doesn’t quite fit in either category.
Dunn has averaged 7.7 points and 4.0 assists a game over his nine NBA seasons, numbers that pale compared to James Harden’s all-time scoring marks or Chris Paul’s ranking as the NBA’s second all-time assist leader. In his first season with the Clippers, Dunn posted 6.4 points and 1.0 assists a game. Hardly worthy of headlines.
The thing that makes Dunn stand out from the other guards is his lockdown defense, his ability to cut off layup attempts and deter opponents from attacking the rim. He is the team’s safety net when others lose their man.
His ability to hound opponents was evident Friday night when he entered the game at the 4:31 mark of the first quarter and the Clippers were trailing the Phoenix Suns by nine in their home opener. Forty-one seconds after checking in, Dunn stole the ball, which led to a 3-pointer by backup center Brook Lopez.
Before the initial quarter was over, Dunn made two free throws, had two steals, one rebound and a putback layup, which gave the Clippers a 34-33 lead.
After the Clippers’ 129-102 victory, Dunn downplayed the significance of his role in helping the Clippers avoid another embarrassing loss. He finished with 14 points, two rebounds and three steals and a heap of praise from his coach.
“I just go out there and do what I do,” Dunn said.” That’s my role on the team. We got a great group of guys, and we understand that anyone can change the game around. I’m just blessed and grateful to have the opportunity to do it tonight.”
Coach Tyronn Lue said that while Harden’s 23 first-half points were crucial, it was Dunn’s defensive mentality and energy “that turned the tide.”
Dunn said that he doesn’t do anything special when he enters a game.
“Honestly, just play physical, get into people’s noses, try to create some momentum defensively, create turnovers and just try to get us out on a break and try to get easy shots,” he said.
Nor is he intimidated by the talent level of the other guards, some of whom are All-Stars and future Hall of Famers.
“I love to compete. I love to be around the best players,” he said. “We got Hall of Famers, we got All Stars on this team, and then we got really great role players, and I want to be in the locker room around great players.
“It makes me bring my game to another level. I’m just blessed and grateful to have an opportunity to be able to help a team who has a chance to do something special.”
BOGDANOVIC SITS AGAIN
Guard Bogdan Bogdanovic didn’t play in Wednesday’s season-opening loss to the Utah Jazz and he again stayed on the bench during Friday’s home opener against the Suns. He had been hampered by lower back soreness, but said at last week’s practice that he was healthy.
After the game, Lue was tight-lipped when asked about Bogdanovic’s second DNP – the only player on the roster who has not seen action.
What’s behind his DNPs?
“Our communication,” Lue said.
Which has been?
“Our communication.”
So, it’s understood he’s not going to play right now?
“Yes, sir,” Lue said, adding that Bogdanovic has maintained a good attitude.