Jamal Crawford Continues to Show Why He’s So Special For Los Angeles Clippers
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Tonight, the Los Angeles Clippers were able to capture one of their best victories of the season, dropping the Houston Rockets 102-85 in Houston. While many will point to Blake Griffin taking advantage of Dwight Howard‘s absence to the tune of 30 points and 10 rebounds as the key to their win, my props belong solely to Jamal Crawford.
In a season during which some have deemed the Clips inconsistent or disappointing, Crawford has consistently provided the NBA world with reminders as to what it is that makes him so special. Tonight, his club was plus-24 when he was on the floor as Crawford connected on 7-of-12 from the field, including four three-pointers for a total of 21 points. The performance sparked the Clips to victory in what many considered a measuring stick game for both teams.
Full disclosure — Crawford is one of my favorite NBA players. It’s hard for me not to be impressed by his love for and dedication to the game that he has made his profession, even as he enters the twilight of his career. That said, regardless of James Harden‘s status as the best two-guard in the Association, Crawford was consistently the better player when the two were on the floor tonight.
If the Clippers continue to trend toward the kind of dominance that many expected coming into the season, with Crawford continuing to provide the kind of performance that makes him one of the most underrated players in the league, Western Conference coaches need to take notice and at least give him consideration as an All-Star player.
Few players can ignite their team as Crawford did against Houston. It’s a special talent to be able to come in cold and light the fire. Last time I checked, the All-Star game is where the league recognizes players with special talent. Hopefully this game will serve as a reminder to all that this is the kind of recognition that Crawford deserves.