The Los Angeles Clippers are in a tough situation right now with regard to their future and also for this current season. They made the blockbuster deal for James Harden but have faltered since his arrival, going 5-5 in their last 10 games (8-10 current record), and looking like a team that is not ready for a deep playoff run. As a matter of fact, most contending teams are not too worried about the Clippers.

With so many ball-handlers and primary offensive options on one team, coach Ty Lue must have a headache trying to find a way to make things work. If the players can mesh quickly and start firing on all cylinders, there is too much talent on the court to ignore at this point. Kawhi Leonard, Paul George, James Harden, and Russell Westbrook are each exceptional All-Stars with the ability to carry an offense, while Norman Powell and Terance Mann can come off the bench and fill it up quickly.

With so much riding on this season and a ton of star power to consider, the Clippers face a difficult next few months before the trade deadline and will have a ton of things to consider with regard to their roster makeup. Without further ado, here are the Clippers players that could be traded by the February deadline.

Players That Could Be Realistically Traded

Norman Powell

Norman Powell stands out as one of the NBA's premier sixth men, showcasing his exceptional scoring prowess and versatility. With an average of 11.9 points per game this season, Powell is a reliable offensive contributor off the bench. However, his contract, starting at $18 million this season and escalating over the next two years to $19,241,379 and $20,482,758, may pose a challenge in potential trade negotiations.

The Clippers must carefully consider whether shedding Powell's contract aligns with their long-term financial strategy. Powell's versatility, not only as a scorer but also as a capable defender, makes him an attractive asset for teams in need of a two-way player.

Russell Westbrook (Restricted Until December 15th)

Russell Westbrook, with his player option worth $4,027,525 next season, presents an interesting scenario for the Clippers. The decision to keep or move Westbrook likely hinges on the team's overall strategy and its pursuit of an impressive roster upgrade. Despite being 34 years old, Westbrook's willingness to come off the bench to enhance team chemistry is a commendable and team-oriented approach. This flexibility adds value to his presence on the roster.

The potential consideration of moving Westbrook could be tied to a long-term strategy, particularly if the Clippers are eyeing James Harden as the point guard going forward. Assessing the fit and chemistry between players is crucial, and if Westbrook's role conflicts with the team's vision for the future, exploring trade options becomes a strategic move.

However, Westbrook's leadership and experience, especially in leading the second unit, should not be overlooked. The decision to trade him should only be made if the return significantly upgrades the roster and there could be a deal on the table involving the Miami Heat. Let's see if Westbrook can keep his spot on the Clippers and remain happy. 

Ivica Zubac

Ivica Zubac has been a reliable presence for the Clippers, but with the team's interest in upgrading their center position with an available All-Star big man, considering a trade involving Zubac becomes significant. At 26, Zubac has shown promise, averaging 11.8 points and 9.1 rebounds this season. The potential trade scenario involving the Chicago Bulls and Nikola Vucevic presents an intriguing possibility.

Vucevic, an All-Star center, could provide the Clippers with the experienced and high-caliber presence they seek in the frontcourt. Zubac's relatively affordable contract, making $11,743,210 next season before he becomes a free agent, could be appealing to a rebuilding team like the Chicago Bulls.

P.J. Tucker

P.J. Tucker, at 38 years old, brings a wealth of experience and a tenacious defensive presence to the Clippers. While past his prime, Tucker's ability to defend multiple positions, including the four and five, adds valuable versatility to any team. His toughness and hard-nosed approach on the court were evident during his time with the Milwaukee Bucks, where he contributed to their NBA championship victory. Tucker's player option for $11,539,000 next season before becoming a free agent provides flexibility in potential trade scenarios.

Given his defensive capabilities and championship pedigree, Tucker becomes an intriguing asset in trade discussions, especially when aiming to match salaries for acquiring another All-Star. Teams looking for a veteran presence with playoff experience may find Tucker's skill set and leadership qualities appealing.

Mason Plumlee (Restricted Until December 15th)

Mason Plumlee, at 33 years old, offers a veteran presence with the capability to provide reliable backup coverage for any starting center. While past his prime, Plumlee's experience and versatility as a backup center make him a valuable asset. Averaging 5.0 points and 5.5 rebounds this season, Plumlee contributes on both ends of the floor in a supporting role.

His current contract, making $5,000,000 this season, adds flexibility in trade discussions, particularly as an expiring contract. As a player with an expiring contract, Plumlee becomes a valuable trade chip for salary-matching purposes. Teams looking to clear cap space or make adjustments to their roster may find Plumlee's contract useful in facilitating trades.

Bones Hyland

Bones Hyland, at 23 years old, is a promising young player for the Clippers, offering a confident shooting ability with a 35.4% accuracy from three this season. His potential to be a "fire starter" on the court makes him an attractive asset, especially given his age and room for development. Making $4,158,439 next season, Hyland's contract is relatively reasonable, adding to his appeal as a valuable piece for potential trades.

Hyland's age and potential make him one of the most attractive assets for the Clippers. His youth aligns well with the team's aspirations for both immediate success and long-term sustainability. As he continues to develop, Hyland could become a key contributor, providing scoring and energy off the bench.

The qualifying offer of $6,137,856 the year after next suggests that the Clippers have the opportunity to retain him and potentially capitalize on his growth as a player. However, his attractiveness as a trade asset should be carefully balanced against his potential contributions to the Clippers' own roster.

Terance Mann

Terance Mann has emerged as a valuable asset for the Clippers, and the team's reluctance to part with him in recent seasons reflects his importance to their roster. At 27 years old, Mann is not categorized as a young prospect, but his potential to become a starter for a team is evident. Despite averaging 6.8 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game this season, Mann's impact extends beyond traditional stat lines.

His energy, defensive prowess, and overall impact on the court make him a player whose value transcends mere numbers. Mann's contributions have been particularly noticeable in critical moments, showcasing his ability to step up when needed. While the Clippers might entertain the idea of packaging Mann for the right star player in a trade, there's also a strong inclination to keep him for the long term.

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Players Who Are Moveable But Not Easily

Paul George

Paul George's substantial player option for the next season at $48,787,676 makes him a challenging player to move in the current trade landscape. However, given his stellar performance as arguably the best player on the Clippers this season, averaging 23.4 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game, George is a critical asset for the team.

The Clippers are likely only open to moving George under specific conditions, such as acquiring a game-changing star in return. This approach reflects the team's commitment to maintaining a competitive roster and not parting with a player of George's caliber without a substantial return.

Another potential scenario for George's departure could arise if he expresses a desire to play elsewhere. While the team is open to exploring various options, George remains a key component of their current success. In the hierarchy of untouchable players, Kawhi Leonard takes precedence, but George is valued highly, potentially making him less readily available in trade discussions.

James Harden

The acquisition of James Harden brings undeniable offensive firepower and elite playmaking to the Clippers, but as with any significant addition, the key consideration is his fit within the team's long-term strategy, especially given the priority to retain Kawhi Leonard. Harden's ability to get past defenders and his proven track record as an elite scorer make him an asset, but his fit into the team dynamic is critical.

If Harden can adapt to a third-scoring role and operate as a playmaker while maintaining good behavior, there might be a case for retaining him. His current season averages of 15.3 points per game and 6.2 assists per game suggest a different role from his previous high-scoring performances, possibly aligning with the Clippers' needs.

However, the potential for team chemistry disruption or a lack of synergy with Leonard is a legitimate concern. If Harden starts affecting the team negatively, or if his playing style doesn't mesh well with the existing roster, the Clippers might opt to explore trade options.

The challenge lies in Harden's age (34 years old) and his history of forcing his way out of previous teams. These factors could limit his attractiveness as an asset in the trade market. The Clippers need to carefully weigh the potential benefits of retaining Harden against the risks associated with his fit, both on and off the court.

Players Immediately Available

Daniel Theis

Daniel Theis, recently acquired by the Clippers to strengthen the frontcourt, adds valuable depth with his contributions on both ends of the floor. Averaging 6.8 points and 4.8 rebounds this season, Theis provides a solid presence in the paint and is known for his tough defense, making him an attractive asset for contenders.

One notable aspect of Theis's situation is his relatively low salary of $2,179,511 this season and his expiring contract status. This makes him an immediately available piece for inclusion in any trade discussions. Theis's affordability and expiring contract could make him an appealing component for teams looking to clear cap space or make adjustments to their roster.

Brandon Boston Jr.

Brandon Boston Jr., a 22-year-old wing player standing at 6'7", has yet to see playing time with the Clippers this season. Despite not making an appearance, his potential as a young player is intriguing. With a salary of $1,836,096 for this season and an expiring contract, Boston becomes a flexible asset in trade negotiations for the Clippers.

The fact that Boston's contract is expiring means that he can be included in any trade without restriction, offering the Clippers additional flexibility in crafting potential deals. His youth and potential upside make him an attractive piece for teams looking to invest in young talent or for the Clippers to sweeten trade packages.

Amir Coffey

Amir Coffey, a 26-year-old 6'7" wing player, provides valuable depth for the Clippers. With a salary of $3,666,667 this season and $3,938,271 next season, he offers a reasonable contract for his role and contributions. While the Clippers may see him as a player they want to keep for depth purposes, the key point is that Coffey is immediately available in any trade negotiation.

Coffey's availability in trade discussions underscores the team's flexibility in exploring potential deals. His contract, which is not overly burdensome, could make him an attractive inclusion in trades for teams seeking depth or looking to balance their roster.

Kobe Brown

Kobe Brown, the No. 30 overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, is a 6'7" power forward who has seen limited playing time with the Clippers, appearing in 7 games this season for under 9 minutes per game. Despite his limited on-court exposure, Brown's rookie contract adds an element of flexibility for the Clippers.

With a salary of $2,413,356 this season and $2,534,024 next season, Brown's contract is relatively manageable. The team options for the next two years provide additional flexibility, allowing the Clippers to make decisions based on his development and fit within the roster.

Two-Way Players

Joshua Primo, Xavier Moon, Jordan Miller, Moussa Diabate

Two-way players can be included in trade negotiations and moved if opposing teams want them. Joshua Primo is the main name in this category because he was acquired following his departure from the San Antonio Spurs due to personal reasons. Primo is 20 years old and has yet to appear with the Clippers this season, although he averaged 5.9 points and 2.3 rebounds per game.

Xavier Moon is 28 years old and not exactly an important piece for the Clippers in terms of minutes earned. He is a 6’2” shooting guard who provides energy so the team will move him as required. Jordan Miller is a 6’7” small forward who was the No. 48 overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft and Moussa Diabate was taken No. 43 overall in the 2022 NBA Draft, meaning both youngsters can be included in any trade that comes up.

Who Would Be The Best Target For The Clippers?

The Clippers, boasting a lineup laden with four All-Star talents adept at scoring and playmaking, have strategically identified the need for an All-Star-quality center to bolster their roster. The defensive prowess of key players such as Leonard, George, and Powell on the wings amplifies the urgency to secure a center capable of rebounding, shot-blocking, and providing consistent scoring both in the paint and beyond the arc. 

One prime target is Nikola Vucevic, the 33-year-old big man, showcasing a robust performance this season with averages of 16.1 points and 10.1 rebounds per game. With the Chicago Bulls potentially becoming sellers due to their subpar record, Vucevic emerges as a compelling option to transform the Clippers into a superteam with his scoring and rebounding capabilities.

Alternatively, Clint Capela, a 29-year-old center, offers a different skill set, emphasizing defensive prowess with solid averages of 10.7 points, 9.7 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks per game this season. While not a primary scoring option, Capela's ability to finish plays around the rim, catch lobs, and play staunch defense aligns well with the Clippers' needs. His existing chemistry with James Harden adds another layer to his potential integration into the team's dynamics.

Another intriguing option is Jonas Valanciunas, who may be on the trading block with the Pelicans. Valanciunas brings a unique offensive dimension, averaging 13.4 points and 8.8 rebounds per game while showcasing an impressive 37.1% shooting from beyond the arc. His ability to stretch the floor could provide the Clippers with an unstoppable offensive lineup, diversifying their scoring options in the frontcourt.

Considering a dark horse target, Myles Turner, at 27 years old, boasts an impressive stat line of 16.6 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game. Turner's two-way proficiency and shot-blocking capabilities could solidify the Clippers' defense while offering scoring contributions. With his age aligning with the team's long-term goals, Turner emerges as a potential cornerstone for the center position in Los Angeles.

In conclusion, the Clippers face a pivotal decision in selecting the best center to complement their star-studded roster. Each option—Vucevic, Capela, Valanciunas, and Turner—brings distinct strengths, ranging from scoring and rebounding to defensive prowess. The final choice will hinge on a delicate balance of immediate impact, long-term viability, and seamless integration into the team's playing style. As the trade landscape unfolds, the Clippers will navigate these considerations to secure a center that can propel them towards championship contention.

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