Clippers Media Day: depth and leadership

Inglewood, CA (News4usOnline) — The Clippers entered Media Day with clarity: they’ve retooled, unified, and are laser-focused on contention. With training camp officially starting Tuesday, Sept. 30, the team has just over a week to establish cohesion before their first preseason game on October 9 and the regular season opener on Oct. 22.

This year’s camp is set at the Kaiser Permanente Training Center in Inglewood, a new 86,000-square-foot facility adjacent to the Intuit Dome. It’s a homegrown move designed to accelerate chemistry and minimize distractions. 

The Clippers also have 15 standard roster spots, plus the capacity to carry three players on two-way deals, giving them flexibility as they finalize the core lineup.

Harden’s Leadership: Chemistry Over Ego

James Harden opened Media Day by grounding expectations in reality — teamwork, adjustment, and patience.

 “I think for us it’s just like riding that rollercoaster and figuring out, hey, this is what works for us as a unit. This is gonna give us the best chance to be the last team standing,” he said.

“Find out what the person is like … what makes them happy … it takes time, it takes patience.”

Harden also spoke out about the transition that Bradley Beal has had to make.  

“He was in a situation where he was with two alphas and it just didn’t work out. I’ve been there. For us, it’s just getting back to loving the game of basketball and riding for each other,” Harden remarked. 

Bradley Beal: Adapting to the Role, Eager to Contribute

Bradley Beal arrives in L.A. with a clear perspective: deliver in whatever capacity helps the team.

“I know who I am and what I’m capable of doing. It’s not going to be what everybody expects it to be. It’s about what’s beneficial for the team … I’m gonna go out there and execute it,” Beal said.

Before joining the Clippers, Beal spent a couple of seasons in Phoenix where he paired up with Kevin Durant and Devin Booker. The formation of this trio never quite materialized and now both Beal and Durant have departed the desert city. 

On his departure from Phoenix and being the focal point of constant trade rumors throughout his career, Beal said the Suns offered him clarity when he agreed to a buyout from the ballclub.  

“In D.C. for 11 years … every single year somebody was trying to move me. Phoenix made a decision. I can’t do nothing but respect it,” Beal said. 

John Collins: The Athletic Forward with Swagger

John Collins is embracing the chance to be a multifaceted power forward in this system.

“I call myself a chameleon. I can change colors, shape-shift into whatever version of myself is needed,” Collins said. “I haven’t really had a chance to play with a high-level playmaker like CP or James. I could just feel the energy … the need to win.”

He also said he’s there to bring “energy, spark, juice — whatever you want to call it” to the team.

Kawhi Leonard: Keeping Eyes on the Prize

Kawhi Leonard addressed the Aspiration endorsement controversy head-on.

“None of us did no wrongdoing. We invite the investigations,” Leonard said. “It’s not gonna be a distraction for me.”

Leonard also spoke about being able to enjoy an offseason where he was healthy.

“It was exciting to be in the offseason, not going through rehab. I was able to push my body to the limit without repercussions.”

He also praised the incoming additions to the Clippers. 

“Bradley is a three-level scorer … John can spread the defense … athletic … run and jump with the best of them … And Brooke brings something unique as a seven-foot shooter,” he said. 

Chris Paul: Experience Anchoring the Core

Chris Paul, now in his 20th season, spoke on why he’s back in Los Angeles and how he plans to lead.

“It’s always been about hooping, and the fun of it. You alone aren’t enough,” Paul said.

“I’m constantly learning from them too. It’s the competition aspect … I love it.”

He also touched on balance: 

“Just getting the chance to do life a little bit, not just basketball … helps.”

Final Word: Harden’s Declaration

Harden closed the day with a quote that frames the narrative for this roster:

“A lot of pieces … we filled a spot in every position — from a versatile big like Brook to elite scoring with Brad. It’s no secret what we’re trying to accomplish. There’s only a handful [of teams] who have a real opportunity. Obviously, you’ve gotta be good enough and you’ve gotta be healthy. Those are the two things — and we’re both of those right now.”

With veterans anchored in leadership, new pieces bringing flexibility, and a focus on health and role clarity, the Clippers look more positioned than ever to back up their talk. Media Day didn’t just frame expectations — it laid down the gauntlet.