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“Kawhi Leonard told me he was ready”

Playing primarily in the G League since the start of the season, Frenchman Moussa Diabaté has seen his name called by Clippers head coach Tyronn Lue in the Clippers’ last two games. An opportunity seized with both hands by the rookie, encouraged by a certain… Kawhi Leonard.

A few days ago, on the Blazers’ court, we had the pleasant surprise of seeing Moussa Diabaté come into play in the last seconds of the third quarter. With the various plagues affecting the Clippers franchise and especially the Kawhi Leonard – Paul George duo, theThe Frenchman selected in the second round of the last Draft had his chance, manager Tyronn Lue decided to bring in some fresh blood as his team was well dominated by Portland. As a result, Moussa made such an impact that he never came out again.

With his energy, his dynamism, his presence on the rebound and his recklessness, the former Michigan has in fact helped the Clippers to make a magnificent comeback, finally winning 118-112. Enough to earn the trust of his coach, who logically gave him minutes from the next game against the Jazz, in which Diabaté secured once again with 11 points and 8 rebounds (including 6 offensive) on 4/8 shooting and 3/3 on free throws. Suffice to say, the young Frenchman was ready when needed, and somewhere that may be thanks to Kawhi Leonard.

“Your turn will come, young man. »

We know Kawhi doesn’t talk much, but when you have the best player in the franchise telling you as you battle it out in the G League, it’s bound to give you a boost. And today he is reflecting on the NBA plans.

Full profile of Moussa Diabaté

Playing in the 4-5 positions, Moussa Diabaté has the advantage of evolving into a team that doesn’t have insane depth in the racket behind pivot holder Ivica Zubac. Another advantage, her profile is clearly different from Zu’s as Diabaté is more of an energizer with good athletic qualities, good mobility, an interesting ability to change in defense, all while being able to stride across the field. For a Clippers team that needs this type of player, that’s very good.

It remains to be seen now whether Moussa Diabaté will keep a role off the bench with the returns of Kawhi and Paul George, who could return tonight against Sacramento. With the two superstars back in five, Terance Mann and Amir Coffey (starters in the last few games) will return to the bench and this will give Tyronn Lue further possibilities in terms of rotation (especially small ball), even if at position 5 it doesn’t change much. According to the latest rumors, Moussa could return to the G League after this meeting against the Kings to really take some time to play, even if nothing is set in stone.

Whatever happens in the end, Moussa seized the opportunity presented to him. And that’s how you get a place among the greats.

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Source text: @joeylinn

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