The Los Angeles Clippers‘ 2024 playoff run ended in disappointment, as they were eliminated in the first round by the Dallas Mavericks, losing the series 4-2. Despite high hopes and a roster featuring stars like Kawhi Leonard, Paul George, and newly acquired James Harden, the team couldn’t overcome the Mavs, led by Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. The Clippers struggled with consistency, particularly in critical moments, leading to their early exit.
With the offseason now in full swing and Paul George’s future lingering in the air, the Clippers’ front office is undoubtedly exploring various trade options to retool and enhance their chances of making a deeper playoff run next season. Here are three potential trade ideas that could help the Clippers achieve their championship goals in 2024.
Sending Paul George Back To Indiana
Los Angeles Clippers receive: Bennedict Mathurin, Aaron Nesmith, 2027 First-Round Pick, 2029 First-Round Pick
Indiana Pacers receive: Paul George
The Los Angeles Clippers are considering significant changes this offseason after a disappointing early playoff exit. One major move being discussed is trading Paul George back to the Indiana Pacers. In this potential deal, the Clippers would receive Bennedict Mathurin, Aaron Nesmith, a 2027 first-round pick, and a 2029 first-round pick, while the Pacers would welcome back Paul George to their roster.
Paul George had a solid 2023-2024 season, averaging 22.6 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game. He showed his shooting prowess with a career-high 41.3% from three-point range. However, his playoff performance dipped slightly to 19.5 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game, as defensive pressure increased. George is set to earn $48.8 million in the 2024-25 season if he exercises his player option, making him a significant financial commitment for any team.
For the Clippers, acquiring Bennedict Mathurin and Aaron Nesmith along with two future first-round picks is a strategic move towards building a younger, more dynamic team. Bennedict Mathurin, in his second NBA season, averaged 14.5 points and 4.0 rebounds per game. His athleticism and scoring ability make him a valuable asset with the potential to develop into a star player. Aaron Nesmith, known for his defensive capabilities and three-point shooting, contributed with averages of 12.2 points and 3.8 rebounds per game. His versatility as a wing player would add depth to the Clippers’ roster.
The Indiana Pacers, who have struggled in the Eastern Conference Finals with a 0-3 record against the Boston Celtics, are looking for a player who can push them over the edge. Reuniting with Paul George would be a strategic move to add a veteran presence and star power to their young core. George’s leadership and playoff experience would be invaluable for a team aiming to make a deeper playoff run. Pairing George with Tyrese Haliburton and Myles Turner could create a formidable trio, enhancing the Pacers’ competitiveness in the Eastern Conference.
This trade scenario presents a win-win situation. The Clippers gain young talent and future assets to secure their long-term success, while the Pacers get a seasoned star who can immediately impact their quest for playoff success. Reuniting Paul George with the Pacers could be the boost they need to finally overcome their postseason hurdles and make a significant run in the Eastern Conference.
Bringing In Another All-Star Caliber Player
Los Angeles Clippers receive: DeMar DeRozan
Chicago Bulls receive: Norman Powell, Terance Mann
The Los Angeles Clippers are looking at all the angles to beef up their roster for the 2024-25 NBA season. One juicy trade idea on the table is bringing in DeMar DeRozan from the Chicago Bulls. The Bulls are keen to keep DeRozan around, but a sign-and-trade could be a smart move to get some valuable players while managing their cap space.
DeMar DeRozan had a stellar 2023-24 season, putting up 24.0 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game over 79 games. He’s a consistent scorer and playmaker, making him a hot commodity for any team wanting a reliable veteran. As a free agent, DeRozan is set to score a big contract, but a sign-and-trade deal with the Clippers could be a win-win for everyone involved.
The Bulls, who finished last season with a 39-43 record and just missed the playoffs, are in rebuild mode. Trading DeRozan in a sign-and-trade would bring in Norman Powell and Terance Mann, both of whom can jump right in and contribute. Powell averaged 13.9 points and 2.6 rebounds per game, while Mann chipped in 8.8 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game. These two would provide the Bulls with depth and flexibility as they look to the future.
For the Clippers, snagging DeRozan would mean adding another All-Star caliber player to their mix with Kawhi Leonard and Paul George. DeRozan’s knack for creating his own shot and setting up others would be clutch in tight playoff games. His experience and leadership could push the Clippers closer to that elusive championship.
Sure, the Clippers would lose Powell and Mann, two solid rotation guys, but the upside of adding DeRozan’s firepower and veteran presence is hard to ignore. This move would show that the Clippers are all in on making the most of their current championship window with Leonard and George.
Underrated Trade For Extra Help With The Jazz
Los Angeles Clippers receive: John Collins, Jordan Clarkson
Utah Jazz receive: Norman Powell, Terance Mann, Bones Hyland
The Los Angeles Clippers are on the hunt for ways to up their game for the 2024-25 NBA season. One sneaky good trade option they’re eyeing is snagging John Collins and Jordan Clarkson from the Utah Jazz. In return, the Clippers would ship off Norman Powell, Terance Mann, and Bones Hyland to Utah.
Adding John Collins and Jordan Clarkson would be a huge win for the Clippers. Collins, a versatile forward, put up 15.1 points and grabbed 8.5 rebounds per game last season. His ability to play both power forward and center makes him a flexible asset. He can shoot from distance, defend well, and would beef up the Clippers’ frontcourt.
Jordan Clarkson, known for his scoring bursts off the bench, averaged 17.1 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game last season. Clarkson’s knack for creating his own shot and his high energy would add a much-needed scoring punch to the Clippers’ bench. His experience and scoring ability could take the pressure off Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, especially in crunch time.
For the Jazz, this trade brings in some fresh talent and depth. Norman Powell is a solid scorer and defender, averaging 13.9 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 1.1 assists in 76 games this season. He can play multiple positions and would add toughness to the Jazz’s lineup. Terance Mann is a young player with a lot of upside. He averaged 8.8 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.6 assists in 75 games this season. Mann’s versatility and improving game would be great for the Jazz’s future. He brings defensive skills and can drive to the basket effectively.
Bones Hyland, a young and energetic guard, averaged 6.9 points, 2.5 assists, and 1.5 rebounds in 37 games this season. He’s got a quick first step and can score in bunches, making him a valuable piece for Utah’s second unit. Hyland’s potential growth adds another layer of excitement for the Jazz.
The Clippers Situation Is Becoming Desperate
The Los Angeles Clippers are in a tough spot heading into the 2024-25 NBA season. With their four-star players—Russell Westbrook, James Harden, Paul George, and Kawhi Leonard—all over 30, the team is running out of time to capitalize on their championship window.
Westbrook is 36, Harden is 34, George is 34, and Leonard is 33. While these players have had illustrious careers, their advancing ages raise concerns about durability and long-term effectiveness. The Clippers have committed a significant portion of their salary cap to these veterans, which limits their flexibility. For the 2024-25 season, the Clippers have a total cap hit of around $245 million, placing them $104 million over the cap space limit.
Paul George is likely to receive a new contract, further tightening the Clippers’ financial situation. Extending George would keep a key player but at the cost of future flexibility. With the current financial commitments, the Clippers have very limited room to maneuver under the salary cap, making it difficult to bring in additional talent without significant changes.
The Clippers are also short on future draft picks, having traded many away in recent deals to acquire their current stars. This dearth of picks hampers their ability to rebuild or retool the roster through the draft. Compounding their issues, the Clippers haven’t won a playoff series in the past three years, highlighting the need for immediate changes if they are to remain competitive.
The Clippers are in a desperate situation, juggling an aging roster, financial constraints, and a lack of draft assets. The next few moves by their front office will be crucial in determining whether they can make the most of their current stars or if they will face a challenging rebuild in the near future.
