This one is a head scratcher. The Los Angeles Clippers are sending Lance Stephenson and a 2019 first round pick to the Memphis Grizzlies in return for Jeff Green. This trade was finalized moments before the deadline, and announced just after it. It has many fans confused.
For the Grizzlies, this trade does not make much sense. They are taking a huge gamble on Stephenson. He has still not been able to produce since his Indiana Pacer days, and he can sometimes be a distraction for a team. Stephenson simply did not fit with the Clippers. He did show flashes every now and then, but he was never able to do it on a consistent basis. If he is able to start producing, he could do well for the Grizzlies. His three-point shooting isn’t the best, but he is a great passer and ball handler. It will be fun to see Stephenson, Tony Allen, and Matt Barnes all try to get along together on the same team. This season Stephenson is averaging just 4.7 points and 2.5 rebounds per game in 16 minutes per night.
The Clippers made the right move. They have desperately needed a wing player who can help on the offensive end, and Green is exactly what they needed. But, Green was very inconsistent in his stint with the Grizzlies. Doc Rivers is also taking a little bit of a gamble with Green. Rivers did coach Green, so there could be a sense of comfort between the two. He could take the starting forward spot from Luc Mbah A Moute. If Green is able to produce on a consistent basis, he will play a huge role for the Clippers. Green is averaging 12.2 points and 4.5 rebounds per game in 29 minutes a night.
Blake Griffin is still out for a few more weeks, so this is a move that needed to be made. It is now clear that the Clippers are trying to win now. They are doing whatever they can to give the Warriors and Spurs a run for their money in the West.
Main Photo via USA Today Sports
