Clippers Lose Opener; Leonard Struggles, Probe Looms

The Los Angeles Clippers lost their season opener 129-108 at Utah after being outscored 43-19 in the first quarter and falling behind by as many as 37. Ivica Zubac was a lone bright spot with 19 points, while Kawhi Leonard struggled (3-9 FG, 1-5 3PT, 10 points in 29 minutes, team-worst -25), raising durability and age concerns despite being off the injury report. Coach Tyronn Lue said he will make earlier substitutions if the starters can’t shore up the defense and warned it may take 15–20 games to sort out chemistry, health and rotations. The Clippers have revamped the roster in a win-now move — adding veteran All-Stars and a 6'11" rookie center — but project as the league’s oldest roster (average 33.2) and face clear questions about depth and cohesion. An independent investigation is reportedly examining whether owner Steve Ballmer and Leonard were involved in funneling extra money through a separate company, a claim both Ballmer and Leonard deny. With back-to-back home games coming against Phoenix and Portland, immediate improvement is required.