The Los Angeles Clippers have continued searching for upgrades to their roster this offseason, as they cope with the loss of Paul George. The superstar’s impact will be difficult to replace with a single player, but the franchise has made it clear that they want to stay competitive, which they’ve done so far. Kris Dunn, Mo Bamba, Derrick Jones Jr, Kevin Porter Jr, and Mason Plumlee have all been signed, while James Harden agreed to re-sign with the team. However, the Clippers may soon sign their largest name of the offseason: Miles Bridges.
NBA Rumors: Controversial Forward Linked to Clippers
Bridges is unquestionably talented. The 26-year-old averaged 21 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game while shooting 46.2% from the field last season for the Hornets. Now, having turned 26, he’s entering his basketball prime. Bridges is athletic, a good shooter, and creates so many highlight moments. He’d be the best replacement that the Clippers can realistically find for George (assuming they can’t miraculously sign DeMar DeRozan).
With a talented guard, Bridges has proven that he’s even more effective. It was playing alongside LaMelo Ball that first elevated Bridges to stardom. His catching of alley-oops off of pick-and-rolls and hard screens made him a fan favorite in Charlotte. It also helped that the Charlotte announcer seemed to have a heart attack every time Bridges dunked on someone.
However, his off-court issues have made him a polarizing player. Bridges sat out the 2022-23 season due to a domestic violence case brought against him. The mother of Bridges’ children accused him of assaulting her in front of their children. He also faced three additional smaller charges, which were later dropped.
Second Chances With Balmer
Bridges wouldn’t be the first player that billionaire owner Steve Balmer gives a second chance to. The Clippers signed Kevin Porter Jr this offseason, a talented guard whose reputation took a hit when he was arrested last year for assaulting his girlfriend. Balmer also gave a second chance to Joshua Primo at the beginning of last season (he’s had his own issues).
While the move hasn’t officially happened yet, it would be a great fit for both Bridges and the Clippers. If the Clippers do want him on their roster, however, it may take a sign-and-trade for it to happen. Possible trade tokens that have been brought up for Bridges include Norman Powell and Terance Mann. Both players make over $10 million per year, likely similar to what the Clippers would offer Bridges.
If this sign-and-trade does come to fruition, Bridges could revive his career, and the Clippers could get the Paul George replacement that they’re so desperately seeking.
