The Los Angeles Clippers will head into the 2024-25 campaign as one of the most well-rounded teams in the league. With enough talented veterans on the roster, the Clippers may be considered old, but they certainly can’t be viewed as a weak team.
Emerging as one of the top teams in the upcoming season, the Clippers have added some capable players to their ranks this offseason. This has helped in establishing depth in virtually every position, but the team still has room to improve.
Whether it is in their starting lineup or their bench rotation, the organization could look to add another prolific scoring talent, aligning with their recent roster-building strategy.
Here’s a potential trade proposal to help the Clippers acquire DeMar DeRozan from the Sacramento Kings to upgrade their bench strength.
Proposed Trade Details
Los Angeles Clippers Receive: DeMar DeRozan
Sacramento Kings Receive: Bogdan Bogdanovic, Derrick Jones Jr.
Recent rumors suggest that the Kings have a “handshake agreement” in place with DeRozan. These claimed that Sacramento would facilitate a trade for him once the Jonathan Kuminga deal is finalized.
A trade to the Miami Heat has seemed like the most likely outcome, but this proposal may also be of some interest to them, although they may demand some draft compensation.
While this trade provides Sacramento with necessary bench depth, it has much more of an impact on the Clippers.
The addition of DeMar DeRozan could be extremely significant for LA, particularly from an offensive point of view.
Even at 35 years old, DeRozan has shown himself to be a proficient scoring threat. Last season, he recorded an average of 22.2 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game. The six-time All-Star has displayed his skills as a three-level scorer on several occasions.
Acquiring the veteran gives the Clippers some flexibility in their rotations. Considering that they also signed Bradley Beal in free agency, Los Angeles could look at potential swaps in the rotation.
Either could start depending on the matchup. Given their competence as offensive players, both would also be effective in bolstering the bench scoring.
DeRozan’s preferred method of scoring may be his most vital asset in this case. While he primarily operates in the midrange, he has shown an ability to score from distance as well. His clutch shooting may also come in handy in close-game situations.
Another factor that may be viewed favorably by the Clippers is his durability. Unlike several players on the Clippers’ roster, DeRozan has been available to play when the team calls upon him.
This factor could be vital for Los Angeles, especially in light of how easily their campaign can be derailed. When considering how inconsistent players such as Kawhi Leonard are known to be, the Clippers would do well to keep a ready replacement who can deliver.
In addition to bolstering scoring, trading two players for DeRozan also opens a roster spot. This could be helpful if they continue to look for more pieces to round out their squad depth.
A move to Los Angeles may also be sentimental for DeRozan. The 35-year-old is an L.A. native. As rumors about his links to the Lakers a few years ago fell through, it seemed unlikely that the guard would return to the city.
Sentimental moves and reunions haven’t been off the table for the Clippers this season. A move like this would allow him to be closer to home, potentially having a positive impact on his performance as well.
The Downsides Of Acquiring DeRozan
As with any deal, there are some downsides to acquiring DeRozan as well.
The 35-year-old isn’t known for his defensive ability. Although he is capable of staying in front of his assignment, there may be some concerns about his actual contributions if he is unable to at least alter shots or restrict his man.
This would limit his opportunities in the starting lineup, especially since Kris Dunn has proven himself to be a tremendous point-of-attack defender, and Leonard remains one of the best two-way players in the league.
Convincing DeRozan to come off the bench may also prove to be a challenge. The 35-year-old has become accustomed to playing heavy minutes during the regular season. By relegating him to the bench, the Clippers could preserve him, but this may also result in reduced production and potential frustration.
DeRozan’s addition would undoubtedly make the Clippers a stronger unit, overall. However, managing the risks could become harder as the season progresses.
