The Los Angeles Clippers have had an eventful summer, losing All-Star Paul George and running it back with Kawhi Leonard and James Harden. With the Minnesota Timberwolves, Denver Nuggets, and Oklahoma City Thunder gaining all the attention in the West, the Clippers have somehow slipped under the radar but will be trying to overcome their five biggest mistakes this summer to win an NBA championship.
Letting Paul George Leave Without A Sign-And-Trade
Allowing Paul George to leave in free agency without orchestrating a sign-and-trade deal stands as a glaring misstep for the Clippers. George, who signed a four-year, $212 million deal with the Philadelphia 76ers, was a pivotal player and Kawhi Leonard’s primary sidekick. His departure marks the dissolution of the Clippers’ Big Three, which also included James Harden. The Clippers not only lost their second-best player but also received no assets in return, weakening their roster depth and future prospects significantly.
The lack of compensation for George is a strategic blunder, especially considering the leverage they had with a player of his caliber. The Clippers could have secured valuable assets—whether in the form of draft picks, promising young players, or even a reliable veteran—through a sign-and-trade. Instead, they face the upcoming season with a significant void and diminished championship aspirations. This oversight could haunt them, particularly in the competitive Western Conference, where every star player’s presence is crucial.
George’s impact on the court was undeniable. In the 2023-24 season, he averaged 22.6 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game while shooting 47.1% from the field and 41.3% from beyond the arc. His two-way play, highlighted by his ability to guard multiple positions and contribute offensively, made him an invaluable asset. Losing such a player without any return is a significant blow that the Clippers will struggle to overcome.
Fail To Replace George With Klay Thompson
The Clippers’ failure to pursue Klay Thompson aggressively is another missed opportunity. Thompson, who signed a three-year, $50 million deal with the Dallas Mavericks, would have been a perfect fit for the Clippers. Known for his elite shooting and championship pedigree, Thompson could have seamlessly filled the void left by George. The Clippers had the financial flexibility to match or even better the Mavericks’ offer, yet they missed out on adding one of the greatest shooters in NBA history at a relatively reasonable price.
In the 2023-24 season, Thompson averaged 17.9 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game while shooting 38.7% from three-point range. His performance in high-pressure playoff situations, combined with his defensive capabilities, would have significantly elevated the Clippers’ roster. Thompson’s championship experience with the Golden State Warriors could have brought a winning mentality and stability to the Clippers, helping them navigate the challenges of the postseason.
Thompson’s experience and skill set would have bolstered the Clippers’ offensive and defensive schemes. His ability to space the floor and provide reliable perimeter defense is precisely what the Clippers needed alongside Leonard and Harden. By failing to secure Thompson, the Clippers not only missed out on an elite shooter but also a proven winner who could have added significant value to their championship aspirations.
Losing The DeMar DeRozan Sweepstakes
The Clippers also erred in not acquiring DeMar DeRozan, who signed a three-year, $77 million deal with the Sacramento Kings. DeRozan would have been an excellent addition, providing veteran leadership and a reliable scoring option without demanding a max contract. Known for his mid-range proficiency, DeRozan could have complemented Leonard and Harden, maintaining the Big Three dynamic even after George’s departure.
DeRozan’s consistent scoring ability and experience would have been invaluable, especially in high-pressure situations. His presence could have ensured the Clippers remained competitive, providing a balanced offensive attack. By failing to secure DeRozan, the Clippers missed out on a player who could have stabilized their lineup and kept their championship window open.
During the 2023-24 season, DeRozan averaged 24.0 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game, shooting 48.0% from the field. His ability to create his own shot and facilitate for others would have added a new dimension to the Clippers’ offense. Additionally, DeRozan’s playoff experience and leadership could have helped mentor younger players and maintain a cohesive team dynamic, crucial for a deep playoff run.
Delaying Decision On James Harden’s Future
The uncertainty surrounding James Harden’s future adds another layer of instability to the Clippers’ offseason. Harden, a crucial piece of their Big Three, has yet to re-sign, leaving the team in a precarious position. With Leonard under contract until 2026-27, the Clippers cannot afford to lose another All-Star. The prolonged indecision could lead to Harden seeking opportunities elsewhere, especially in an era where player mobility is high, and superstars frequently team up through personal networks.
Harden’s contributions last season were significant, averaging 16.6 points, 8.5 assists, and 5.1 rebounds per game while shooting 42.8% from the field and 38.1% from three-point range. His playmaking and scoring abilities were integral to the Clippers’ offensive strategy. Losing him would mean a substantial drop in offensive production and a potential reshuffling of the team’s core identity, making it imperative for the Clippers to resolve his contract situation promptly.
The Clippers should have been proactive in securing Harden with a team-friendly deal to ensure stability and continuity. Harden’s potential departure would not only strip the team of a significant offensive weapon but also hinder their ability to attract other stars in the future.
Not Finding An Upgrade At Center
While Ivica Zubac is a solid starting center, the team could have benefited from adding a star-caliber big man like Nikola Vucevic. Vucevic, with his scoring and rebounding prowess, would have provided a substantial boost to the Clippers’ frontcourt. Alternatively, Jonas Valanciunas, who signed a three-year, $30 million deal with the Wizards, could have offered improved depth and added defensive capabilities.
Zubac’s performance last season was consistent, averaging 11.7 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game. However, the Clippers’ inability to add a versatile and more offensively skilled center like Vucevic, who averaged 18.0 points and 10.5 rebounds per game, could limit their ability to compete with elite teams. Vucevic’s offensive versatility and rebounding would have provided a more dynamic and formidable frontcourt presence, enhancing the Clippers’ overall competitiveness.
Zubac’s contract situation, with free agency looming after the 2024-25 season, further underscores the need for a reliable backup or potential replacement. The Clippers’ lack of depth at the center position could expose them against teams with dominant big men, including Nikola Jokic in the same conference.
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