The Los Angeles Clippers are in a tough situation right now with regard to their future and also for this current season. They made the blockbuster deal for James Harden but have faltered since his arrival, going 5-5 in their last 10 games (8-10 current record), and looking like a team that is not ready for a deep playoff run. As a matter of fact, most contending teams are not too worried about the Clippers.
With so many ball-handlers and primary offensive options on one team, coach Ty Lue must have a headache trying to find a way to make things work. If the players can mesh quickly and start firing on all cylinders, there is too much talent on the court to ignore at this point. Kawhi Leonard, Paul George, James Harden, and Russell Westbrook are each exceptional All-Stars with the ability to carry an offense, while Norman Powell and Terance Mann can come off the bench and fill it up quickly.
With so much riding on this season and a ton of star power to consider, the Clippers face a difficult next few months before the trade deadline and will have a ton of things to consider with regard to their roster makeup. Without further ado, here are the Clippers players that could be traded by the February deadline.
Players That Could Be Realistically Traded
Norman Powell
Norman Powell stands out as one of the NBA’s premier sixth men, showcasing his exceptional scoring prowess and versatility. With an average of 11.9 points per game this season, Powell is a reliable offensive contributor off the bench. However, his contract, starting at $18 million this season and escalating over the next two years to $19,241,379 and $20,482,758, may pose a challenge in potential trade negotiations.
The Clippers must carefully consider whether shedding Powell’s contract aligns with their long-term financial strategy. Powell’s versatility, not only as a scorer but also as a capable defender, makes him an attractive asset for teams in need of a two-way player.
Russell Westbrook (Restricted Until December 15th)
Russell Westbrook, with his player option worth $4,027,525 next season, presents an interesting scenario for the Clippers. The decision to keep or move Westbrook likely hinges on the team’s overall strategy and its pursuit of an impressive roster upgrade. Despite being 34 years old, Westbrook’s willingness to come off the bench to enhance team chemistry is a commendable and team-oriented approach. This flexibility adds value to his presence on the roster.
The potential consideration of moving Westbrook could be tied to a long-term strategy, particularly if the Clippers are eyeing James Harden as the point guard going forward. Assessing the fit and chemistry between players is crucial, and if Westbrook’s role conflicts with the team’s vision for the future, exploring trade options becomes a strategic move.
However, Westbrook’s leadership and experience, especially in leading the second unit, should not be overlooked. The decision to trade him should only be made if the return significantly upgrades the roster and there could be a deal on the table involving the Miami Heat. Let’s see if Westbrook can keep his spot on the Clippers and remain happy.
Ivica Zubac
Ivica Zubac has been a reliable presence for the Clippers, but with the team’s interest in upgrading their center position with an available All-Star big man, considering a trade involving Zubac becomes significant. At 26, Zubac has shown promise, averaging 11.8 points and 9.1 rebounds this season. The potential trade scenario involving the Chicago Bulls and Nikola Vucevic presents an intriguing possibility.
Vucevic, an All-Star center, could provide the Clippers with the experienced and high-caliber presence they seek in the frontcourt. Zubac’s relatively affordable contract, making $11,743,210 next season before he becomes a free agent, could be appealing to a rebuilding team like the Chicago Bulls.
P.J. Tucker
Terance Mann has emerged as a valuable asset for the Clippers, and the team’s reluctance to part with him in recent seasons reflects his importance to their roster. At 27 years old, Mann is not categorized as a young prospect, but his potential to become a starter for a team is evident. Despite averaging 6.8 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game this season, Mann’s impact extends beyond traditional stat lines.
His energy, defensive prowess, and overall impact on the court make him a player whose value transcends mere numbers. Mann’s contributions have been particularly noticeable in critical moments, showcasing his ability to step up when needed. While the Clippers might entertain the idea of packaging Mann for the right star player in a trade, there’s also a strong inclination to keep him for the long term.
Players Who Are Moveable But Not Easily
Paul George
Paul George’s substantial player option for the next season at $48,787,676 makes him a challenging player to move in the current trade landscape. However, given his stellar performance as arguably the best player on the Clippers this season, averaging 23.4 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game, George is a critical asset for the team.
The Clippers are likely only open to moving George under specific conditions, such as acquiring a game-changing star in return. This approach reflects the team’s commitment to maintaining a competitive roster and not parting with a player of George’s caliber without a substantial return.
Another potential scenario for George’s departure could arise if he expresses a desire to play elsewhere. While the team is open to exploring various options, George remains a key component of their current success. In the hierarchy of untouchable players, Kawhi Leonard takes precedence, but George is valued highly, potentially making him less readily available in trade discussions.
James Harden
The acquisition of James Harden brings undeniable offensive firepower and elite playmaking to the Clippers, but as with any significant addition, the key consideration is his fit within the team’s long-term strategy, especially given the priority to retain Kawhi Leonard. Harden’s ability to get past defenders and his proven track record as an elite scorer make him an asset, but his fit into the team dynamic is critical.
If Harden can adapt to a third-scoring role and operate as a playmaker while maintaining good behavior, there might be a case for retaining him. His current season averages of 15.3 points per game and 6.2 assists per game suggest a different role from his previous high-scoring performances, possibly aligning with the Clippers’ needs.
However, the potential for team chemistry disruption or a lack of synergy with Leonard is a legitimate concern. If Harden starts affecting the team negatively, or if his playing style doesn’t mesh well with the existing roster, the Clippers might opt to explore trade options.
The challenge lies in Harden’s age (34 years old) and his history of forcing his way out of previous teams. These factors could limit his attractiveness as an asset in the trade market. The Clippers need to carefully weigh the potential benefits of retaining Harden against the risks associated with his fit, both on and off the court.
Players Immediately Available
Daniel Theis
Amir Coffey, a 26-year-old 6’7″ wing player, provides valuable depth for the Clippers. With a salary of $3,666,667 this season and $3,938,271 next season, he offers a reasonable contract for his role and contributions. While the Clippers may see him as a player they want to keep for depth purposes, the key point is that Coffey is immediately available in any trade negotiation.
Coffey’s availability in trade discussions underscores the team’s flexibility in exploring potential deals. His contract, which is not overly burdensome, could make him an attractive inclusion in trades for teams seeking depth or looking to balance their roster.
Kobe Brown
