The LA Clippers' defense this season is expected to be exceptional

Los Angeles Clippers fans have little to be excited about heading to the team's regular-season opener against the Phoenix Suns. Superstar wingman Kawhi Leonard remains on the sidelines as he continues to recover from a knee procedure that was done in the offseason. Meanwhile, the team's primary offensive weapon in his absence will be 15-year veteran James Harden.

While the Clippers' offense won't provide enough reasons for fans and observers to get up from their seats, there is one area where the Clippers could potentially shine this season: defense. Despite losing a key defender in Paul George in the offseason, the team has added some solid defensive pieces in Derrick Jones Jr., Nicolas Batum, and Kris Dunn.

Clippers' defense could be elite

The Clippers' offense will look shaky. However, they could compensate for that by playing solid defense to force turnovers and create accessible scoring opportunities. Fortunately, the Clippers have the right personnel to do just that.

"They lost Paul George, but they added Derrick Jones Jr., the best defender on an NBA Finals team. They also added Kris Dunn, who is known for being a reliable perimeter defender," Jasmyn Wimbish wrote .

DJJ is an athletic 6-foot-5 forward who has embraced being the "3-and-D" role in the league. Jones Jr., an athletic left-handed wingman who can keep in step with some of the league's best perimeter weapons, could be a valuable asset to the Clippers' defense.

In addition, Kris Dunn brings his relentless energy and quick hands to disrupt opponents' ball-handling and passing. His ability to pressure opposing guards will be crucial in creating turnovers and disrupting the flow of their offense.

Clippers have a reliable rim protector

People often underestimate the two-way abilities of the Clippers' starting center, Ivica Zubac, but opponents must be wary of the 7-footer's shot-blocking abilities. The native of Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina, has averaged 1.2 blocks per game in his last three seasons.

"Add that to Ivica Zubac, Terance Mann, and Leonard when he returns, and you have a squad that will be difficult to score on," Wimbish added.

Kawhi's extended absence has put the Clippers in a problematic situation. However, they may keep their heads above water in the stacked Western Conference if their defense can hold up.

The Clippers will start the season in a tough spot, with Kawhi Leonard expected to be sidelined as he continues to rehab from offseason knee surgery. But his recovery aside, the Clippers should have one of the best defensive units in the league.

Related: James Harden is embracing the chance to lead the LA Clippers in Kawhi Leonard's absence