The Clippers opened their new $2 billion-plus Intuit Dome with a tough loss to the Phoenix Suns, despite a promising defensive effort. James Harden led the team with 29 points, but costly mistakes and turnovers ultimately cost them the game in overtime. The absence of Kawhi Leonard, due to ongoing knee discomfort, left a gap that Harden and his teammates tried to fill. The team showed signs of promise, with contributions from Ivica Zubac, Norman Powell, and Amir Coffey. The Clippers’ dedication to defense under new assistant coach Jeff Van Gundy was evident, but they will need to clean up their game and come back stronger in the upcoming matches. Harden’s effort and leadership will be crucial in the absence of Leonard, with coach Tyronn Lue emphasizing the need for him to be aggressive and involve his teammates on offense. The team’s collective effort will also be key in moving forward and establishing themselves in the new era of Clippers basketball. With Leonard’s return date still uncertain, the team will need to work together to make an impact in the competitive Western Conference. The fans in the near-sellout crowd went home with a hint of promise despite the opening night loss, looking forward to seeing what this new era of Clippers basketball will bring.
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