Los Angeles Clippers need Blake Griffin to take next step?

May 5, 2014; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Los Angeles Clippers forward Blake Griffin (32) handles the ball while defended by Oklahoma City Thunder forward Serge Ibaka (9) during the first quarter in game one of the second round of the 2014 NBA Playoffs at Chesapeake Energy Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports
May 5, 2014; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Los Angeles Clippers forward Blake Griffin (32) handles the ball while defended by Oklahoma City Thunder forward Serge Ibaka (9) during the first quarter in game one of the second round of the 2014 NBA Playoffs at Chesapeake Energy Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports /
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It’s been though that the Los Angeles Clippers will go as far as point guard Chris Paul takes them, but he can’t do it alone. Given that, the team is looking for additional help and all eyes are set on Blake Griffin.

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The All-Star talent has proven to be an excellent player and has grown immensely from the athletic freak that entered the league a few short seasons ago. However, with the Los Angeles Clippers being one of the best in the NBA’s Western Conference, the former Oklahoma standout needs to take the next step if his Clippers are to do the same.

That’s the belief of Basketball Insiders who hints the LA Clippers are counting on improvement from Griffin this season.

"Chris Paul is without a doubt the leader in the locker room and on the court, but the Clippers need Griffin to further develop into the type of player that can be called upon for the key basket in a crucial situation when teams swarm the point guard with size."

If there was a target area Blake Griffin would need to improve, it’s likely his defense as he’s proven himself to be a bit of a liability on that end of the court (despite the fancy blocks) in the past. That’s not to say he hasn’t become a better defender during his stint in the NBA, though that’s likely the weakest part of his game and one the Los Angeles Clippers need to see improved.

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