Brooklyn Nets vs LA Clippers Prediction: Combined starting 5 featuring Kawhi Leonard and Kyrie Irving

Small Forward - Paul George (LA Clippers)

LA Clippers Paul George is finally back after an injury layoff

Paul George is averaging incredible numbers this season and there is an argument to be made that his high-level of production is why the LA Clippers are a top 3 seed. He is averaging nearly as many points as Kawhi Leonard and the two have been dominant in the 2020-21 NBA season.

Paul George's opening night performance vs the Lakers33 points6 rebounds3 assists13-18 from the field (72%)5-8 from three (63%) pic.twitter.com/39sV1dApJc

— Saj (@Saj2413) February 19, 2021

Paul George is also shooting efficiently this season, and may even enter the 50-40-90 club.

Power Forward - Kawhi Leonard (LA Clippers)

Kawhi Leonard has been at his efficient best for the LA Clippers

Kawhi Leonard's defensive prowess allows him to play either forward position. He is lethal in the open court and can get his team buckets while also defending the opposition's best player. Kawhi Leonard is an early MVP candidate and may earn his first-ever MVP award this season.

29 points from Kawhi power the @LAClippers at Staples Center. 🔥 pic.twitter.com/p225nl7dbu

— NBA (@NBA) February 20, 2021

Kawhi has also been named a Western Conference All-Star starter this year, after becoming the inaugural winner of the All-Star Game MVP (renamed to Kobe Bryant MVP) in 2020.

Center - Serge Ibaka (LA Clippers)

Serge Ibaka has proved to be a shrewd offseason signing for the LA Clippers

The LA Clippers' latest center, Serge Ibaka is flourishing in Los Angeles. He has adjusted to his role perfectly and has continued his prolific partnership with Kawhi Leonard. The two played together in Toronto on the Raptors' 2019 Championship-winning team.

It's hard to think of a more ideal supporting castmate than Serge Ibaka for Kawhi Leonard https://t.co/szKYqFSTIx

— Sports Illustrated (@SInow) February 5, 2021

Serge Ibaka has earned the nickname "I-block-a" because of his rim-protecting prowess and shot-blocking ability. He is the ideal center for this star-studded starting 5, thanks to his effectiveness while running pick-and-rolls, as well as his outside shooting and passing from inside the post.