Throwback - Patrick Beverley calling his Clippers team better than the 2017-18 Warriors

One of the most vocal players in the NBA, Patrick Beverley, has often found himself on the wrong end of things owing to his bold statements. The 6-foot-2 guard takes great pride in his ability to get into the minds of his opponents, be it trash-talking or playing physical.

Nonetheless, we cannot ignore Pat Bev’s defensive capabilities. The former Clippers guard also displayed leadership abilities, courtesy of his quality play-making. But sometimes, he could go too far with his way of words, failing to live up to it.

A prime instance of this was Beverley calling the Clippers a better team over the Warriors, who were coming off back-to-back championships in 2017-18. Beaming confidently, Mr. 94 Feet even compared his and Clips teammate Avery Bradley’s defense to a Hall of Famer.

Revisiting Pat Bev’s bold claim against the Warriors in 2018

At the time, the Clippers were rebuilding after the Lob City debacle. Nonetheless, they weren’t a lottery team consisting of budding young talents. Hence, it is not hard to imagine their determination and passion for the game, which, at times, could go overboard. A case in point was Beverley’s statement on the Warriors .

“Clippers (are first) when we’re healthy, and second has to be the Golden State Warriors since they are the champions,” said Pat. “If the Clippers are healthy, we’re fine.”

In what seemed more of an attention gimmick, Beverley crowned himself and Bradley the best two defenders in the history of the NBA. The two Clippers teammates, who shared four All-NBA defensive selections, compared themselves to Gary Payton.

The Clippers did give the Dubs an upset scare in 2019

Undoubtedly the favorites to win it all, the Warriors faced the Clippers in the 2019 first round of playoffs. One would assume a team boasting Kevin Durant, Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green wouldn’t waste any time sweeping the Clippers, who didn’t have a single All-Star on their roster.

But there was no walking in the park, with the series going six games, not to mention the back and forth with KD. Nevertheless, the Slim Reaper wouldn’t fall for Bev’s antics. “ Cause he is Kevin Durant .”

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