Watching Austin Rivers so far in the playoffs has been nothing short of unexpected and unforeseen. He has simply been fun to watch, and through the support of his father and Clippers Nation, Austin Rivers has been playing with a great deal more confidence than ever before in his short NBA career.
In this Houston Rockets series, Austin Rivers has been able to put up solid numbers averaging; 16 points 3 rebounds and 1.75 assists per game. Those numbers may not scream at you, but like it or not, Austin has definitely been a key to the Clippers’ post season success, and their hero.
Looking back on Game 1, Austin Rivers’ defense had a major effect on the Clippers winning a game I really didn’t expect them to win. Rivers totaled 17 points, four steals and three assists, starting for Chris Paul, who was injured for Games 1 and 2. Even though some may believe that his spot was handed to him by his father Doc Rivers and not earned, he has clearly not succumbed to the pressure. In spite of his turnovers, sloppy passes, and suspect handles, Rivers has been the solution so far for the Los Angeles Clippers against the Houston Rockets.
In addition, Rivers played a huge role in Game 3, helping the Clippers go on a 23-0 run in the 3rd quarter. Rivers scored 16 of the points in that run; even the crowd started chanting “AUST-IN RIV-ERS.” Not only did he score with ease but he also stirred the pot, James Harden’s pot.
I have always been an Austin Rivers fan, dating back to his days as a Winter Park High School Senior who was regarded as one of the best players in the Nation. However his past 2 seasons in the NBA still have not lived up to his expected potential. Austin Rivers is finally getting some recognition and I don’t think anyone would disagree if I said that he has easily been one of the biggest surprises of this year’s NBA Playoffs.
Let’s hope this Riv-sanity stays in Clipper Nation for good.
