The Los Angeles Clippers need to massively revamp the roster this summer after yet another season of 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 the most important player on the team in free agency, the Clippers are looking to create an improved roster around Kawhi Leonard and we have collected the team’s 10 best free agents for them this summer.
1. Paul George
2023-24 Season Statistics: 22.6 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 3.5 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.5 BPG
Possible Salary Range: $30-32 million, 3-year deal
The Clippers might still bring Paul George back even if there are rumors the All-Star will be a key target for many teams including the Philadelphia 76ers and Indiana Pacers. George fits like a glove in Los Angeles alongside Kawhi Leonard, and as long as he doesn’t ask for anywhere near $40 million, the Clippers might resort to bringing him back.
The problem is that George hasn’t been healthy, appearing in at least 65 games once over his tenure with the Clippers (74 appearances in 2023-24). His numbers with the Clippers have been strong, with 22.6 points per game on 41.3% from three, but only one Western Conference Finals appearance has bothered Clippers fans. Even so, there aren’t many better players than George in free agency.
2. James Harden
2023-24 Season Statistics: 16.6 PPG, 5.1 RPG, 8.5 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.8 BPG
Possible Salary Range: $25-30 million, 2-year deal
James Harden, coming off a season where he averaged 16.6 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 8.5 assists, brings elite playmaking and scoring to the Clippers and the team won’t want to let him go. His ability to create shots for himself and others would significantly ease the offensive burden on Kawhi Leonard.
Harden’s court vision and passing ability can elevate the entire team’s offensive efficiency. Under Ty Lue, known for his strategic adjustments and ability to manage superstar talents, Harden could thrive in a system that maximizes his strengths while minimizing his defensive liabilities. If the Clippers lose Paul George, it is almost certain they will re-sign James Harden to a two-year deal at least but the team will look to bring the Beard back regardless.
3. DeMar DeRozan
2023-24 Season Statistics: 24.0 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 5.3 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.6 BPG
Possible Salary Range: $25-$28 million, 3-year deal
DeMar DeRozan’s addition to the Clippers would provide another scoring option alongside Kawhi Leonard. Averaging 24.0 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 5.3 assists last season, DeRozan has proven to be a reliable scorer and playmaker. His mid-range game complements Leonard’s versatile scoring ability.
DeRozan’s ability to get to the free-throw line and create his own shot would take pressure off Leonard, allowing him to focus more on defense and efficient scoring. DeRozan’s presence would also benefit the Clippers in late-game situations, where his clutch scoring can be pivotal. If George walks, DeMar DeRozan would be an excellent replacement.
4. Buddy Hield
2023-24 Season Statistics: 12.1 PPG, 3.2 RPG, 2.8 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.5 BPG
Possible Salary Range: $17-$23 million, 3-year deal
Buddy Hield, a sharpshooter with a career three-point shooting percentage above 40%, would be an excellent fit for the Clippers’ spacing needs. Last season, he averaged 12.1 points per game on 38.6% from deep, demonstrating his ability to contribute offensively. Playing alongside Kawhi Leonard, Hield’s shooting would open up driving lanes and create more scoring opportunities for Leonard and other teammates.
Ty Lue’s offense, which often emphasizes ball movement and three-point shooting, would maximize Hield’s strengths, making him a valuable asset. Hield’s ability to stretch the floor is crucial for the Clippers, especially in a league that increasingly values perimeter shooting. His potential salary range of $17-$23 million over three years is a fair investment for a player who can significantly improve the team’s offensive efficiency.
5. Gary Trent Jr.
2023-24 Season Statistics: 13.7 PPG, 2.6 RPG, 1.7 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.1 BPG
Possible Salary Range: $12-15 million, 3-year deal
Gary Trent Jr., known for his scoring and defensive capabilities, would be a versatile addition to the Clippers. Averaging 13.7 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 1.7 assists last season, Trent has demonstrated his ability to contribute on both ends of the floor. His perimeter defense would complement Kawhi Leonard’s defensive prowess, creating a formidable wing duo.
Under Ty Lue, Trent could thrive in a system that values two-way players, allowing him to showcase his skills as a reliable scorer and a tenacious defender. His ability to knock down three-pointers (39.3% in 2023-24) and defend multiple positions fits well with the Clippers’ need for versatility and depth.
6. Jonas Valanciunas
2023-24 Season Statistics: 12.2 PPG, 8.8 RPG, 2.1 APG, 0.4 SPG, 0.8 BPG
Possible Salary Range: $12-15 million, 3-year deal
Even with Ivica Zubac on the roster, there is no harm in finding another center to take over the starting spot to score and rebound inside. Jonas Valanciunas, a reliable big man with a strong presence in the paint, would address the Clippers’ need for interior scoring and rebounding.
Last season, he averaged 12.2 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists, showcasing his ability to contribute offensively and on the boards. Valanciunas’ size and skill set would complement Kawhi Leonard’s versatile game, providing the team with a consistent inside threat. His ability to score in the post, set solid screens, and protect the rim would be invaluable for the Clippers.
7. Josh Okogie
2023-24 Season Statistics: 4.6 PPG, 2.6 RPG, 1.1 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.4 BPG
Possible Salary Range: $5-$8 million, 3-year deal
Josh Okogie is too good to accept a $2,956,734 player option and not test his value in free agency. The Clippers would love to bring the two-way wing to the team, and it is realistic they can get him on a team-friendly contract. Okogie’s reputation as a lockdown defender and his ability to guard multiple positions makes him a valuable asset.
Playing alongside Kawhi Leonard, Okogie can take on challenging defensive assignments, allowing Leonard to conserve energy for offensive contributions. Under Ty Lue, Okogie could thrive in a system that prioritizes defensive intensity and hustle and he would certainly upgrade the Clippers’ 10th-ranked defense.
8. Malik Beasley
2023-24 Season Statistics: 11.3 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 1.4 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.1 BPG
Possible Salary Range: $9-12 million, 3-year deal
Malik Beasley, a capable scorer and three-point shooter (41.3%), would add depth and offensive firepower to the Clippers. Averaging 11.3 points per game last season, Beasley has shown his ability to contribute as a reliable scoring option off the bench. His shooting ability would provide much-needed spacing for Kawhi Leonard and the rest of the team.
Under Ty Lue, Beasley could excel in a role that emphasizes his strengths as a shooter and a scorer. If the Clippers bring back James Harden, Beasley’s floor-spacing would help the team be a better shooting team than they were last year. Beasley’s potential salary range of $9-12 million over three years is a fair value for a player who can provide instant offense and stretch the floor.
9. Lonnie Walker IV
2023-24 Season Statistics: 9.7 PPG, 2.2 RPG, 1.3 APG, 0.6 SPG, 0.3 BPG
Possible Salary Range: $10-12 million, 3-year deal
Lonnie Walker IV, a 25-year-old guard, would bring energy and scoring to the Clippers. Averaging 9.7 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 1.3 assists last season, Walker has demonstrated his potential as a dynamic scorer and could be an excellent bench option for the team that needs to find scoring replacements for the likely departing George.
Walker’s potential salary range of $12-15 million over three years reflects his upside and the impact he can have on the team’s future. His youth and potential for growth make him an attractive option for the Clippers, who are looking to build a balanced roster around Leonard.
10. Kyle Lowry
2023-24 Season Statistics: 8.1 PPG, 3.2 RPG, 4.2 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.4 BPG
Possible Salary Range: $3,313,453, 1-year deal
A perfect backup option to signing Chris Paul in free agency (if the Warriors waive him), Kyle Lowry remains a valuable veteran presence at 38 years old. While his statistics for the 2023-24 season are not elite by any means, Lowry’s leadership, toughness, and championship experience are well-known because he can provide winning minutes and space the floor as a good three-point shooter (39.2% in 2023-24, 36.8% in career).
Lowry’s ability to manage the game, play solid defense, and hit timely shots would be crucial for the Clippers, especially in the playoffs. His experience and leadership would be invaluable in the locker room and on the court alongside a rather reserved leader like Kawhi Leonard.
Thank you for being a valued reader of Fadeaway World. If you liked this article, please consider following us on Google News. We appreciate your support.
