The Los Angeles Clippers know all the doubts and disrespect thrown against them.

It all started when Paul George ended his partnership with the entire organization after five seasons filled with ups and downs. As the All-Star took his talents to the East Coast to bolster the Philadelphia 76ers, the Clippers' level of power to compete massively decreased.

As such, the rumbling became even louder after it was recently announced that Kawhi Leonard will be sidelined indefinitely as the 2024-25 season looms. As Klaw's condition remained risky with his right knee inflammation, the Clippers took another strict measure of keeping the franchise star away from competitive ball.

Prove people wrong

Even though the circumstances have been against them, the Clippers remain determined to enter the new season to continue pursuing their unfinished business.

The Clippers couldn't care less about the constant skepticism and overlooking they are witnessing from fans and league experts. Many have been predicting them to settle for a lottery finish and noting that their title window has finally closed, but they remain devoted to what they can do with a revamped, well-rounded roster.

Norman Powell and his Clippers team are motivated to prove doubters wrong and deliver a resounding statement that they still belong among the NBA's elite.

"People are counting us out and don't think we're going to be a competitive team this year," Powell said. "I think we're going to prove a lot of people wrong, and people are going to join the bandwagon as the season goes along, and they see how we play together, the play style, and the talent we have on this team."

Eyes on the prize

Of all the people within the Clippers franchise, Ty Lue certainly shoulders the heaviest responsibility for keeping the team afloat and spirited enough to contend.

With the Clippers set to deal with PG's exit, Lue will boldly look to spearhead the squad for another solid year. Since inheriting the team's coaching keys, he led Los Angeles to three playoff appearances in the last five seasons.

But beyond another winning season, Lue sets his sights on only the ultimate goal: winning a championship, which he believes is attainable despite the unfavorable odds.

"Our expectations are always high -- to win," the Clippers coach said. "I mean, we have a great group of guys. We have guys who play hard and compete. We have offensive guys, so when we step on the floor, we prepare to win and want to win.

"With PG being gone and Kawhi being out right now, we still feel like we have enough, and I believe that."

Related: Clippers guard Terance Mann's 4-point offensive blueprint for the 2024-25 NBA season