West Notes: Clippers, Kawhi Leonard, Lakers, Mavericks, Kyrie Irving

Bill Simmons says Dallas Mavericks are going to be saved from D'Angelo Russell imploding

The Dallas Mavericks will play without Kyrie Irving for most of the season due to injury. Irving‘s absence creates an urgent need for a point guard capable of being primary ball handler and has playmaking responsibilities. While the Mavericks could give those duties to number one pick Cooper Flagg, they signed D’Angelo Russell to fill the role. Russell brings experience with top franchises including the Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warrio…

West Notes: Clippers, Kawhi Leonard, Lakers, Mavericks, Kyrie Irving

Imagn Clippers ESPN’s Kevin Pelton sees the Clippers outperforming their betting line with 49.7 wins, thanks in large part to a positive outlook on Kawhi Leonard’s health. Pelton’s model projects Leonard to play 66 games, similar to last season’s 68 — which would mark his second-highest total since joining Los Angeles. Beyond that, the roster’s balance stands out. “The Clippers also benefit from having no player rated worse than minus-0.5 points…