Austin Rivers made his mark with the LA Clippers last season thanks to his significantly improved defense. His motor ran faster and his intensity increased as he guarded opponents well inside and out, being a pest from three and consistently covering drives to the basket. It made him an integral part of the team’s improvement to 4th in the NBA in defensive efficiency after only ranking 15th in 2014-15, and that same effort will make Rivers’ role off the bench just as important next season.
While there will need to be improvements in other aspects of Rivers’ game as he looks to progress after receiving a new three-year, $35 million deal this summer, defense should be a guaranteed contribution Clippers fans can count on.