Harden's Conditioning, Kawhi's Health Jeopardize Clippers' Title Run

Brian Windhorst called the Clippers “spectacular” and praised Kawhi (“Kawhi looks fabulous”), but also warned James Harden is “not even in that great of shape.” That caveat matters: Harden was the team’s primary scorer and facilitator last season (22.8 PPG, 8.7 APG) and Kawhi missed 45 games. Los Angeles added Bradley Beal, John Collins and Chris Paul this offseason, yet age and health risks leave little margin for error in a loaded West. Merlin sees a team built to contend on paper but balanced on a blade in practice. The veteran additions can paper over early struggles, but this roster’s ceiling depends on a vintage, fit Harden and a healthy Kawhi. If both show up, deep traction is possible; if not, history may repeat.