The LA Clippers are barely treading water in the western conference. A lack of a full roster, inconsistent play, and a tougher schedule is plaguing the team. Amidst this disappointing season is the equally frustrating play from their point guards, Reggie Jackson and John Wall. Both lead guards have had up-and-down seasons. Consequently, this led to Ty Lue benching both in favor of third-year guard Terance Mann. Mann has played well, giving the team juice and energy to start. Lue mentioned his play is ‘infectious’ to the other guys. He is also playing an average of 37.5 minutes per game since the change. Even with his stellar play, it appears the team is still looking for a floor general. Marc Stein recently reported that the Clippers are interested in Utah Jazz guard Mike Conley.
Report: Clippers Are Interested in Mike Conley
The Clippers’ interest in Conley is nothing new. Jake Fischer of Bleacher Report reported that the squad was interested in Conley during the offseason. It appears that their interest has not waned, especially considering the disappointing play from their point guards.
Conley is currently averaging 10 points, 7.5 assists, and two rebounds for the Utah Jazz. However, he is shooting an abysmal 38% from the floor. Given the Clippers’ need for a more efficient point guard, his numbers don’t fit the mold. But he is more skilled than Jackson and Wall from deep, running a pick-and-roll, and finishing with his floater. Could playing with better talent ease his offensive strain and make him more efficient? Perhaps, but we won’t know until we see it.
A trade involving Conley likely involves Marcus Morris and Jackson to make the salaries work. If those are the only players the Clippers have to give up, they will likely need to add draft capital, like their first-round pick and/or a couple of second-rounders. With Utah thinking of the future, they might ask for Brandon Boston Jr. to sweeten the deal.
Now whether a trade for Conley makes sense is up for debate. Adding Mann to the starting lineup and giving him significant time helps more than adding another old guard. Sure, Mann isn’t a floor general by nature. But he is vastly improved in his decision-making when driving to the lane, as well as knocking down his three-point shot. Not to mention that he is also shooting 52% from the floor. Conley can help during the regular season and some during the playoffs. But if he is on the roster, expect opposing teams to target him, as he would be the smallest player on the court. With Mann, the Clippers don’t give up much size. Plus, the addition of his athleticism and juice is much more needed for this slow team.
