Multiple LA Clippers players convene for a preliminary training session before their official camp in Hawaii scheduled for next month

Training camp is a crucial time in the NBA season when players gear up for the upcoming year. It is also a time for teammates to bond and build chemistry on and off the court. This year, the Los Angeles Clippers decided to get a head start on their training camp by participating in a mini-camp hosted by superstar guard James Harden in Arizona.

Trained at Harden's alma mater

The upcoming season presents a critical junction point for the Clippers. With Paul George departing the team and heading to Philadelphia to join Joel Embiid and the 76ers, the Clippers are looking to soldier on with Harden and two-time NBA Finals MVP Kawhi Leonard leading the way.

However, the Clippers acquired numerous players in the offseason who they must now integrate, including high-flying forward Derrick Jones Jr., Mo Bamba, and Kris Dunn. This makes this mini-training camp crucial as the team looks to establish chemistry and hit the ground running to remain relevant in the Western Conference.

According to NBA writer Tomer Azarly, the Clippers at this camp include Terance Mann, Amir Coffey, Kobe Brown, Jordan Miller, DJJ, Dunn, and Mo.

Get ahead of the game

Numerous pundits have pegged the Clippers as on the outside looking in. And given how legitimate contenders such as Oklahoma City, Minnesota, and Dallas have bolstered their rosters, it's easy to see why. However, the Clippers cannot afford to dwell on what others are doing and must instead focus on their team. This mini-training camp allows them to do just that and get a head start on their competition.

Harden's spearheading this initiative says a lot about his mindset as he heads to his 16th season in the league. While many may still question whether he can lead a team to a championship, one thing is sure: with his determination and work ethic, he will not go down without a fight.

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