When hurt and in need of production, the LA Clippers were left with one option, and one option only, and that was to force heavy minutes on their veterans. This was a shortcut, and though it is a real-life principle to avoid the easy route, the Clippers were limited in breathing room.
In the end, what the fans and the front office may have realized is that they were running veterans into the ground. Role players playing over the age of 30 should not have the duties of a first or second option, as they are accustomed to starring in one or multiple roles and are paid well below the superstar minimum.