The Los Angeles Clippers suffered another disappointing season this year, failing to make it to the NBA Finals despite having superstar power including Kawhi Leonard, Paul George, and James Harden on the squad. After finishing with a 51-31 record and the 4th seed in the West, the Clippers were defeated in the first round of the playoffs by the Dallas Mavericks. With Paul George likely to leave, the Clippers are looking to create a new and improved roster around Kawhi Leonard and we have collected the team’s target list organized from dream priority to low priorities.
Dream Priority – Zach LaVine
How The Clippers Can Land Zach LaVine:
Clippers Receive: Zach LaVine
Bulls Receive: Norman Powell, Terance Mann, PJ Tucker, No. 46 Overall Pick, 2027 First-Round Pick
Zach LaVine is the Clippers’ main priority this summer due to his elite shooting and athleticism, combined with his ability to play both on and off the ball. At 29 years old, LaVine is in his prime, making him an excellent replacement for the departing Paul George. This season, LaVine averaged 19.5 points and 5.2 rebounds per game while shooting 34.9% from three-point range but he averages over 38% for his career. His scoring prowess and versatility on offense would fit well alongside Kawhi Leonard and James Harden, potentially forming a formidable trio for the Clippers.
LaVine’s availability for trade has garnered major interest from the Clippers, who see him as a key piece to compete for a championship. By acquiring LaVine, the Clippers can bolster their lineup with a younger shot-maker who complements Leonard and Harden’s playstyles. The proposed trade package offers the Bulls a mix of veteran presence, young talent, and draft assets, which might be enough to entice them into parting with their star guard.
Top Priority – Alex Caruso
How The Clippers Can Land Alex Caruso:
Clippers Receive: Alex Caruso
Bulls Receive: Terance Mann, 2027 First-Round Pick, 2029 First-Round Pick
Alex Caruso would significantly upgrade the Clippers’ backcourt, especially on the defensive end. Known for his elite defensive skills, Caruso has made two straight All-NBA Defensive Teams. This season, he averaged 10.1 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game while shooting 40.8% from three. His ability to spot up for threes and defend multiple positions makes him an ideal fit alongside Harden and Leonard, allowing the Clippers to compensate for any defensive inefficiencies in their lineup.
By trading for Caruso, the Clippers can improve their perimeter defense and add a player who thrives in high-pressure situations. The Bulls are likely to demand a high price, including two first-round picks, which reflects Caruso’s value as a top-tier defensive player. His presence would enable the Clippers to deploy versatile defensive schemes, even going small without sacrificing much on defense.
High Priorities – Chris Paul, Kyle Lowry
How The Clippers Can Land Chris Paul:
Clippers Receive: Chris Paul (Claim After Waived)
Chris Paul remains a high priority for the Clippers due to his legendary status and leadership qualities. Although 39 years old, Paul averaged 9.2 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 6.8 assists per game this season, shooting 37.1% from three-point range. If the Warriors waive him (his $30M deal becomes guaranteed on June 28th), the Clippers can sign him, benefiting from his experience and floor general skills. Paul’s previous success playing alongside Harden in Houston adds to his appeal, potentially creating a dynamic backcourt pairing.
How The Clippers Can Land Kyle Lowry:
Clippers Receive: Kyle Lowry (Free Agency)
Similarly, Kyle Lowry is a high priority for the Clippers, even though he is 38 years old. As a free agent, Lowry can bring championship experience and clutch shot-making to a team aiming to win now. This season, Lowry posted 8.1 points and 4.2 assists per game while shooting 39.2% from beyond the arc. Lowry could provide the Clippers with the necessary leadership and playoff experience to make a deep postseason run.
Medium Priorities – Collin Sexton, Malcolm Brogdon, Dorian Finney-Smith
How The Clippers Can Land Collin Sexton:
Clippers Receive: Collin Sexton
Jazz Receive: Terance Mann, PJ Tucker, No. 46 Overall Pick, 2027 First-Round Pick
Collin Sexton, at 25 years old, had a strong season, averaging 18.7 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game while shooting 39.4% from three-point range. His youth, athleticism, and scoring ability make him an intriguing target for the Clippers. However, the Jazz’s high asking price, including two first-round picks and Norman Powell, makes Sexton a medium priority. Sexton’s ability to create his shot and provide an offensive spark as the new starting point guard could be valuable for the Clippers.
How The Clippers Can Land Malcolm Brogdon:
Clippers Receive: Malcolm Brogdon
Bucks Receive: Terance Mann, PJ Tucker, 2027 First-Round Pick
Malcolm Brogdon is an excellent two-way guard who can shoot and defend at a high level. This season, Brogdon averaged 15.7 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game while shooting 41.2% from three-point range. However, his injury history downgrades his priority for the Clippers because he only played 39 games this season and has played at least 65 games twice in eight seasons. The proposed trade involves giving up Terance Mann, PJ Tucker, and a first-round pick, which reflects Brogdon’s value despite his injury concerns.
How The Clippers Can Land Dorian Finney-Smith:
Clippers Receive: Dorian Finney-Smith
Nets Receive: Terance Mann, Amir Coffey, 2027 First-Round Pick
Dorian Finney-Smith is known for his defensive prowess on the perimeter and ability to spot up for threes. This season, he averaged 8.5 points and 4.7 rebounds per game, shooting 34.8% from three-point range. Finney-Smith can effectively replace Paul George’s defensive role without needing the ball, making him a valuable addition. The proposed trade package is moderate, involving Terance Mann, Amir Coffey, and a first-round pick, but the Clippers will need to prioritize other areas on the court a little more.
Low Priorities – Pat Connaughton, John Konchar
How The Clippers Can Land Pat Connaughton:
Clippers Receive: Pat Connaughton
Bucks Receive: Terance Mann
Pat Connaughton has experience playing with a title contender in the Bucks and brings elite athleticism and shot-making ability. This season, he averaged 5.6 points and 3.1 rebounds per game, shooting 34.5% from three-point range. Connaughton’s energy and experience could be beneficial, but the Clippers need to consider if losing Terance Mann is worth the trade. At the same time, the team will need to look at their starting lineup because sufficient coverage for Kawhi Leonard is needed on the perimeter.
How The Clippers Can Land John Konchar:
Clippers Receive: John Konchar
Grizzlies Receive: Bones Hyland
Finally, John Konchar is a quietly effective role player who competes on defense and can make threes. This season, he averaged 4.3 points and 4.7 rebounds per game and has a strong career average of 36.0% from three. Konchar can provide depth and efficiency off the bench, making him a low-priority target. The proposed trade involving Bones Hyland reflects Konchar’s under-the-radar but valuable skill set.
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