Clippers' trade strategy emerges clearer after winning streak
A Strong Comeback and the Clippers' Future Plans
After a rough start to the season, the Los Angeles Clippers have managed to turn things around in the last two weeks. They've won six consecutive games, improving their record to 12-21. This recent success has lifted them to the 11th seed in the Western Conference, just 5.5 games behind the eighth-seeded Golden State Warriors. With the February 5 trade deadline approaching, this resurgence has solidified what the Clippers’ strategy will likely be.
Even during the early struggles, there was never any sign that the team’s front office was ready to abandon ship and start over. Steve Ballmer, Lawrence Frank, and Ty Lue have consistently shown they are committed to keeping the current core of the team intact. Now that the Clippers are playing better and fighting for a playoff spot, it's hard to imagine the top brass changing course.
The Relationship with Leonard and Harden
There is a unique bond between the Clippers organization and Kawhi Leonard. James Harden has also made it clear he has no desire to request a trade. As a result, the Clippers are unlikely to move either of their star players unless they specifically ask to be traded mid-season.
Of course, circumstances can change. An injury to either Leonard or Harden could completely shift the team’s plans for the rest of the season and beyond. However, with the All-Star Weekend at Intuit Dome and the team performing well behind Leonard's MVP-level play, it seems almost certain that the Clippers will keep their star duo.
The Most Likely Scenario: Buyers at the Trade Deadline
The more probable scenario is that the Clippers will be buyers at the trade deadline. Rebuilding the core around Leonard and Harden to give this group another chance aligns more with the organization's long-term vision. One of the most intriguing questions will be whether Ivica Zubac remains part of the team, especially since the recent winning streak occurred while he was sidelined due to an ankle sprain.
The Clippers have several valuable assets to work with when considering trades. They can use their 2030 and 2032 first-round picks, as well as swap rights on their 2031 first-rounder, to maximize their draft capital. In terms of salary matching, John Collins’ $26.5 million and Bogdan Bogdanovic’s $16 million contracts are the two biggest trade chips available. Using these players along with their draft picks could help the Clippers acquire another high-level starter or two.
Strategic Decisions and the Road Ahead
Whether it makes sense to give up significant draft capital to chase a Play-In spot is debatable. However, if the Clippers want to bring in another player with a near-max salary, they have the necessary assets to do so. Another option could be trading one of their first-round picks for a smaller but more impactful addition to the roster. Regardless of the approach, it's safe to say that anyone expecting the Clippers to move on from their stars will have to wait until the offseason.
Additional Insights on the Clippers
- Clippers Rookie Giving LA What They Need in Ivica Zubac's Absence
- Clippers Risk Running Kawhi Leonard Into the Ground With Massive Load
- Latest Clippers Report Should Put James Harden Trade Rumors to Rest
- 5 Most Realistic Landing Spots for Chris Paul
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