Los Angeles Clippers face critical choices in pursuit of Anthony Davis
The Los Angeles Clippers are currently struggling, sitting at a disappointing 3-7 to start the season. This rocky beginning has left them in a precarious position, one that they will need to navigate carefully as they attempt to salvage their playoff hopes. With the Western Conference as competitive as ever, the implications of their early-season performance could prove dire, leaving little room for error.
Navigating the Harden-Kawhi Era
In light of their current predicament, the Clippers must let the partnership between James Harden and Kawhi Leonard play out. A rebuilding phase is not feasible, especially given the limited future assets at their disposal. This reality has led to a growing chorus among fans and analysts alike, urging the team to double down and pursue immediate success.
The recent firing of Dallas Mavericks GM Nico Harrison has reignited discussions around the availability of Anthony Davis, the star forward for the Los Angeles Lakers. On a recent episode of The Zach Lowe Show, analysts Zach Lowe and J. Kyle Mann floated the idea of the Clippers as a potential landing spot for Davis, sparking intrigue around a possible trade.
The complexities of acquiring Davis
However, the logistics of such a transaction present significant challenges. Davis is set to earn $54.1 million this season, and the Clippers are operating under a hard cap at the first apron. To facilitate a deal, they would need to package a combination of players such as John Collins, Bogdan Bogdanovic, Brook Lopez, and Derrick Jones Jr. This not only complicates the roster dynamics but also raises questions about whether they would be required to acquire additional players, further complicating the math.
Moreover, the Clippers lack enticing future assets that could interest the Mavericks in a trade, especially if a bidding war for Davis develops. While they can offer two unprotected first-round picks and a pick swap, it’s unlikely that this package would be the most appealing in a competitive market.
The risks of acquiring an aging star
Regardless of the trade mechanics, the Clippers should exercise caution when considering a move for Davis. The franchise has leaned heavily into the superstar model, and owner Steve Ballmer may find the allure of pairing Leonard and Harden with another star hard to resist. However, the risks associated with acquiring an aging player with a history of injuries cannot be overstated.
While the Clippers’ future may already be uncertain, committing significant resources to another player in his 30s could exacerbate their challenges in the coming years. The evidence from their first ten games indicates that the team would benefit more from a roster that is younger, faster, and more athletic. Adding Davis alongside Ivica Zubac in the frontcourt may only heighten the team’s existing concerns.
The pursuit of Anthony Davis may seem enticing on the surface, but for the Clippers, the potential repercussions warrant a careful reevaluation of their strategy moving forward.
