Los Angeles Clippers face urgent season turmoil with potential trade shakeup
The Los Angeles Clippers find themselves grappling with a tumultuous season that has quickly spiraled into a nightmare. With a record of 4-10 and competing in a fiercely competitive Western Conference, the team faces an uphill battle if they hope to salvage their aspirations for a deep postseason run. A significant turnaround is imperative, and time is of the essence. To initiate this shift, the Clippers may need to make bold roster alterations, potentially involving a major trade that could reinvigorate their season.
Asset Limitations and Trade Constraints
Unfortunately, the Clippers aren’t exactly flush with trade assets. Their options include a 2031 first-round pick, along with a few pick swaps, but the team is constrained by a hard cap at the first apron. This constraint limits their ability to acquire players, as they must balance outgoing salary with incoming contracts. Realistically, they may have to offload less salary than they take on in any trade, narrowing their pool of potential targets. However, there remain several quality rotation players available who could help the Clippers turn the tide.
Potential Trade Targets
Zach LaVine
With the Sacramento Kings struggling, a pivot seems likely. The Clippers are in dire need of a shooting guard, and Zach LaVine could fit the bill. Given his hefty salary, a trade wouldn’t require a massive haul. LA might consider offering a package including John Collins, Bogdan Bogdanovic, Kris Dunn, and the 2031 first-round pick. Despite the challenges his contract presents, LaVine’s addition could provide the Clippers with a valuable short-term boost in their quest for contention.
Ben Mathurin
The Indiana Pacers are in a consolidation phase, currently sporting the worst record in the league. As they await Tyrese Haliburton’s return next season, they may be reluctant to extend Ben Mathurin’s expiring contract. Mathurin’s youth, athleticism, and potential make him an enticing target for the Clippers. Acquiring him might require the unprotected 2031 first-round pick and several pick swaps, plus the salary of Derrick Jones Jr. Yet, if the Clippers can convince the Pacers to part ways with him, it could be a smart gamble.
Daniel Gafford
Though Gafford can’t be traded until after December 15 due to a contract extension, the Dallas Mavericks find themselves in a position where they could consider moving him. With a wealth of options in their frontcourt, the Clippers could view Gafford as an upgrade over Brook Lopez, even if center isn’t their primary focus. A trade for Gafford could involve Lopez, Kris Dunn, and a first-round pick, enhancing the Clippers’ center play for key minutes behind Ivica Zubac.
Herb Jones
The New Orleans Pelicans, languishing at the bottom of the Western Conference, might benefit from moving veterans with trade value like Herb Jones. While Jones can’t be traded until January 14, his defensive prowess and improved shooting make him a perfect fit for the Clippers, who desperately need a reliable three-and-D starter. A potential trade package of Bogdanovic, an unprotected first-round pick, and a swap could entice the Pelicans to let Jones go.
Michael Porter Jr.
Since being traded to the Brooklyn Nets, Michael Porter Jr. has flown under the radar, yet he’s quietly been productive. Recognized for his sharp three-point shooting and positional size, Porter could provide the off-ball offensive threat the Clippers currently lack. His contract, set at $38.3 million, is cumbersome, yet the Clippers possess enough underperforming contracts to make it work. A trade involving Bogdanovic and John Collins could pave the way for Porter’s return to Los Angeles.
As the Clippers navigate this precarious season, the urgency for a transformative move grows. With a mix of limited assets and an array of potential trade targets, the path forward is fraught with challenges but also ripe with opportunity. The next few weeks could define the trajectory of their season as they look to reverse their fortunes and reestablish themselves as contenders.
