The Los Angeles Clippers face a crucial offseason after yet another disappointing playoff exit. As they prepare to move into the $2 billion Intuit Dome, owner Steve Ballmer and his management team need to make strategic moves to ensure the team remains competitive and generates excitement for their new home. Here are three key moves the Clippers should consider this offseason:
Los Angeles Clippers: Securing a Starting Power Forward
Injuries have plagued Kawhi Leonard for the fourth consecutive season, hampering his ability to perform at his peak during the playoffs. Given Leonard’s substantial contract and limited trade value due to his injury history, the Los Angeles Clippers should focus on optimizing his role by moving him back to his natural position as a small forward. This shift would minimize the physical toll on Leonard and allow him to maximize his offensive contributions.
One potential target for the Los Angeles Clippers is Grant Williams of the Charlotte Hornets. Williams offers the right combination of spacing, size, and playoff experience. His three-point shooting prowess (37.5% last season) and solid build (236 pounds) make him an ideal fit. With the Hornets in rebuild mode, they might be open to trading Williams, who fits within the Los Angeles Clippers’ budget constraints.
3 months until the Grand Opening ⏳👀 pic.twitter.com/qgJrVlZJYI
— LA Clippers (@LAClippers) May 16, 2024
Strengthening the Backup Point Guard Position
Russell Westbrook‘s performance this past season, especially in the playoffs, exposed his ill-fit within the Los Angeles Clippers’ system. Despite decent regular-season stats, his shooting struggles (26% in the playoffs) allowed defenders to disrupt the Clippers’ offense easily.
The Los Angeles Clippers need a reliable backup point guard who can seamlessly integrate into their system. Tre Mann, who showed promise with the Hornets, could be a viable option. Mann’s 11.9 PPG and 36.4% shooting from three make him a solid candidate. Acquiring a young and affordable guard like Mann would enhance the Clippers’ depth and provide a more consistent offensive threat.
Re-signing Paul George and James Harden
The Clippers’ lack of first-round picks in the next six years, primarily due to the trades for Paul George and James Harden, puts immense pressure on the team to retain these star players. Letting either George or Harden walk this summer would leave the team with limited options to replace their talent, especially given their cap situation.
Even though George and Harden aren’t the players they once were, they still possess significant trade value. Re-signing them ensures the Clippers maintain leverage and avoid losing valuable assets for nothing. It also preserves the team’s competitive edge as they transition to their new arena.
The Los Angeles Clippers‘ offseason decisions will be pivotal in determining their future success. By acquiring a starting power forward, strengthening their backup point guard position, and re-signing key players, they can retool effectively and create a buzz for their inaugural season at the Intuit Dome.
