What Do The Clippers Need At Trade Deadline?
Los Angeles is a little handicapped in what they can do at the NBA trade deadline. The Clippers, the oldest team in the NBA, are just $1.1 million below being hard-capped at the first apron. The Clippers have stated that Leonard, James Harden, or Ivica Zubac will not be traded before the deadline. However, John Collins is reportedly available, per Broderick Turner of the Los Angeles Times. Paul, Bogdanovic, and perhaps Brook Lopez could also be available. Additionally, their only movable first-rounders are 2030 and 2032.
If they can make a trade, the Clippers are looking to first and foremost upgrade their bench. The Clippers would like to acquire a veteran two-way wing or combo guard. Specifically, the Clippers are looking for a versatile wing who can guard the two-through-four positions and is at least an average 3-point shooter. And, as Turner added, the Clippers would like a combo guard who can create off the pick-and-roll when Harden is on the bench.
Houston’s Dorian Finney-Smith, Denver’s Bruce Brown, and Phoenix’s Royce O’Neale all fit the bill. However, Finney-Smith may be the only one of the trio of players realistically available.
While a trade is not guaranteed, the Clippers will make a few roster moves. The Clippers will either do so at the trade deadline or right after.
