Will Offseason Additions Leave The Right Mark?
The Clippers made multiple offseason moves that could have the sun peeking through the clouds.
John Collins has been trying to find his way after peaking in his third season. In 2024-25, he was pretty close to his 2019-20 form, averaging 19.0 points, 8.2 rebounds and 1.0 block per game. Acquired by Los Angeles in a three-team July trade, the springy 6-foot-9 big man now gets the best pick-and-roll partner he has had since his days with the Atlanta Hawks in 2018 NBA MVP, James Harden. He’s currently projected to start at power forward for the Clippers.
Bradley Beal comes with much more individual success than Collins. After being bought out of his $53.7 million expiring contract by the Phoenix Suns, he signed with the Clippers for two years and $11 million. He’s now poised to start in place of Norman Powell, who was traded to the Miami Heat as part of the deal that sent Collins to Los Angeles. As the Clips needed a starting wing who’s more dangerous in iso situations, replacing Powell with Beal should work out well.
Chris Paul is the biggest name to join Los Angeles this offseason. Retirement appears to be on the horizon for the 39-year-old, who isn’t expected to have a steady role in 2025-26. With that being said, Paul is back in his old digs but in unfamiliar territory. Still, his body will likely be fresher in the playoffs than usual. Furthermore, even when he’s not on the court, his well-documented basketball IQ will be beneficial.
