The Los Angeles Clippers are exploring last-minute trade options ahead of the NBA trade deadline, and one intriguing idea has surfaced: acquiring athletic power forward Obi Toppin from the Indiana Pacers. The potential deal would see the Clippers sending Terance Mann and Bones Hyland to Indiana in exchange for Toppin, bolstering their frontcourt with an explosive, rim-running presence.
Los Angeles Clippers Receive: Obi Toppin
Indiana Pacers Receive: Terance Mann and Bones Hyland
The Clippers currently hold a 28-22 record, sitting sixth in the Western Conference standings. However, their position is anything but secure. With the Golden State Warriors just three games behind in 11th place and the San Antonio Spurs five games back in 12th, any slip-up could push them closer to the play-in tournament rather than solidifying a higher playoff seed.
Over their last ten games, the Clippers have gone 5-5, struggling to maintain consistency. Despite boasting the NBA’s second-ranked defense, their offensive efficiency has been a concern, and adding a high-energy player like Toppin could provide a much-needed spark.
Toppin, who is averaging 9.8 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game while shooting an efficient 53.8% from the field and 34.8% from three-point range, would give the Clippers an upgrade in their frontcourt depth.
His ability to run the floor, finish in transition, and provide a vertical threat around the basket makes him an appealing addition to the team. The 26-year-old is currently in the first season of a four-year, $58 million contract, which means the Clippers would be making a long-term investment in his role with the team.
On the other side of the equation, the Pacers would be receiving Terance Mann and Bones Hyland, two promising guards who could help reinforce their backcourt depth. Mann is averaging 6.0 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 1.6 assists while shooting 44.6% from the field and 34.7% from deep.
His three-year, $47 million contract extension has yet to kick in, making him a controllable asset for Indiana. Meanwhile, Hyland, a dynamic scoring guard, is averaging 7.2 points on 39.1% shooting from the field and 38.8% from beyond the arc. He is currently on the first year of his rookie contract and will be a restricted free agent, giving the Pacers flexibility in deciding his long-term future.
For the Pacers, the motivation to trade Toppin lies in their financial situation. Indiana has been one of the most surprising teams this season, sitting fourth in the Eastern Conference with a 28-21 record. While their offensive rating ranks ninth in the NBA, their defense remains a work in progress at 18th.
Toppin’s name has surfaced in trade discussions, but there hasn’t been much traction on potential deals. However, with Indiana operating just $147,335 under the luxury tax threshold and having $222.8 million in salary commitments for the 2025-26 season, financial constraints could push them to move Toppin.
The Pacers’ ownership, led by Herb Simon, has historically avoided paying the luxury tax, making roster changes likely either now or in the offseason.
Ultimately, while this trade may not be a blockbuster, it serves both teams’ needs. The Clippers would get an athletic forward who fits well alongside their star players, while the Pacers would gain valuable backcourt depth while managing their salary cap concerns. With the trade deadline fast approaching, this is a deal that could benefit both sides as they prepare for the stretch run of the season.
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