Clippers at a Crossroads as Trade Deadline Approaches
The Los Angeles Clippers are in a precarious position this season, currently languishing with a disappointing 6-19 record. Despite having key players like James Harden and Ivica Zubac healthy and Kawhi Leonard returning to form after a three-week absence, victories have been elusive. This disheartening performance has led to speculation that the franchise may need to pivot towards a rebuild. However, the front office has yet to fully embrace this reality, leaving the team in a state of uncertainty as the trade deadline looms. With options to either bolster their roster or offload assets, a flurry of trade activity seems inevitable. But which players are most at risk as the Clippers navigate this tumultuous period?
Kawhi Leonard’s Complicated Future
In a perfect world, a trade involving Kawhi Leonard would be the catalyst for a much-needed rebuild. However, his deep-rooted relationship with the franchise complicates such an outcome. The only scenario where a trade could materialize is if Leonard himself demands a move to a specific destination. His substantial $50 million salary, coupled with age and injury concerns, presents significant challenges. Few teams can absorb that kind of financial commitment midseason without disrupting their own roster depth. As such, the likelihood of multiple suitors willing to part with valuable assets appears slim. Consequently, it seems more probable that the Clippers will retain Leonard at least until the summer.
Ivica Zubac: The Most Attractive Trade Asset
Among the Clippers’ roster, Ivica Zubac stands out as the player with the most trade value. His blend of youth, consistent performance, and team-friendly contract makes him an appealing target for teams in need of a center. Any interested party would need to offer a substantial package—potentially multiple first-round picks or an unprotected first-rounder along with an intriguing young player—to entice the Clippers to part with him. Should the Clippers opt to sell at the deadline, Zubac is likely to generate significant interest. However, his position on this list reflects the prevailing sentiment that the organization may not pivot during the current season.
James Harden’s Dilemma
While not a certainty to be moved, James Harden’s case for departure is perhaps the most compelling among the Clippers’ star trio. Playing at a near All-NBA level at the age of 36, Harden is in the twilight of his career and has never experienced a losing season or missed the playoffs. The question remains: will he be amenable to finishing his 17th season on a struggling team? With a player option worth $42.3 million for next season, it would be prudent for the Clippers to at least explore trade offers for Harden rather than risk losing him for nothing in the offseason.
Bogdan Bogdanovic: The Versatile Trade Chip
Although Kris Dunn is currently the starter, Bogdan Bogdanovic serves as a critical component of the Clippers’ lineup, effectively functioning as an unofficial fifth starter. His $16 million expiring contract makes him a pivotal trade chip for the Clippers. Given Dunn’s team-friendly deal and defensive prowess, it seems unlikely he would be moved. Instead, Bogdanovic represents a valuable asset that could either facilitate an upgrade for the Clippers or be offloaded for tax savings. The direction the team chooses to take at the deadline will likely hinge on how they leverage Bogdanovic’s contract.
John Collins: A Key to Potential Moves
John Collins, the third-highest paid player on the team with a $26.6 million salary, has struggled to meet expectations since his arrival in Los Angeles in exchange for Norman Powell. With his contract expiring after this season, Collins becomes a fascinating asset for the Clippers. If they aim to enhance their roster ahead of the deadline, Collins will likely be central to those discussions. A trade package built around Collins and Bogdanovic could enable the Clippers to absorb over $40 million in return, potentially opening the door for another star acquisition. While this strategy may carry risks, it appears to be the most plausible route for the Clippers as they seek to reshape their future.
The trade deadline is fast approaching, and as the Clippers weigh their options, the decisions they make in the coming weeks will significantly impact the team’s trajectory. With key players like Leonard, Zubac, Harden, Bogdanovic, and Collins all potentially in the mix, the front office faces a critical juncture that could redefine the franchise for years to come.
