As the 2024-25 NBA season approaches, the Los Angeles Clippers are on the brink of a monumental shift. With the debut of their new arena, the Intuit Dome, Clippers owner Steve Ballmer is poised to infuse the team with new energy and a revitalized spirit. This isn’t just a change of venue—it’s potentially a whole new era for the franchise. Despite the star-studded roster with Kawhi Leonard and Paul George at the helm, who had underachieved so far together, the Clippers’ recent performance has been lackluster, stained by repeated playoff disappointments even as they added James Harden this season. Over the past five years, their playoff journey has included two first-round exits, a second-round departure, a Western Conference Finals loss, and a season missing the playoffs entirely.
At 32, Kawhi Leonard’s career has been plagued by injuries, raising concerns about his long-term viability as a franchise cornerstone. Paul George, similarly injury-prone, has faced criticisms of being overrated, especially when the stakes are high. James Harden, once a dominant force in the league, appears to have his best years behind him. With these factors in mind, the Clippers stand at a crossroads, contemplating a future that could pivot away from their current stars to embrace a dynamic, energetic team characterized by high flyers and staunch defenders. This new direction could not only redefine the team’s identity but also perfectly complement the fresh start promised by the Intuit Dome.
The Clippers Send Kawhi Leonard To The Warriors
As the Clippers look to shake things up and move past a stretch marked by injuries in the playoffs, trading Kawhi Leonard could be a smart move. His time with the team, though speckled with stellar performances, was often overshadowed by his struggle to stay healthy during the key postseason moments. This could tempt a team like the Golden State Warriors, hungry to get back to the playoffs, to take a chance on Leonard’s superstar abilities.
Los Angeles Clippers Receive: Andrew Wiggins, Jonathan Kuminga, Gary Payton II, 2026 First-Round Pick, 2028 First-Round Pick
Golden State Warriors Receive: Kawhi Leonard
The Warriors are keen to bounce back strong, and snagging Leonard could be their big play. He brings that clutch factor and defensive grit they’ve been missing.
For the Clippers, this deal would hit the reset button and bring in some fresh legs. Jonathan Kuminga is a promising young talent who averaged 16.1 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game last season, showing flashes of brilliance and a lot of potential. Andrew Wiggins, chipping in with 13.2 points and 4.5 rebounds per game, would add some solid scoring and dependable defense. Throw in Gary Payton II for his fierce defense and hustle, and this lineup starts looking pretty spicy. Not to mention, those two future first-round picks could really help the Clippers build a strong team for the years ahead.
Kawhi Leonard, despite the ups and downs, was a key player for the Clippers when he was on the floor. In the 2023-24 season, he managed to put up 23.7 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game across 68 games. His ability to change the game when he’s playing is undeniable.
This trade would not just give the Clippers some exciting new players and valuable draft picks, but also a chance to craft a new identity that’s all about vibrancy and defensive smarts. It’s a chance to build something that could stand the test of an ever-evolving NBA landscape.
Paul George Returns To The Pacers
Paul George has a big decision to make: pick up his $48 million player option with the Clippers for this season or opt for a sign-and-trade that could secure him a larger salary than hitting the free agency market directly. Either way, it looks like a return to the Indiana Pacers could be on the cards for George via a trade.
Los Angeles Clippers Receive: Bennedict Mathurin, Aaron Nesmith, Doug McDermott, 2027 First-Round Pick, 2029 First-Round Pick
Indiana Pacers Receive: Paul George
For the Clippers, this deal could be a win. Here’s why: They’d be getting a fresh young talent in Bennedict Mathurin, who put up 14.5 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game last season. Aaron Nesmith isn’t too shabby either, contributing 12.2 points and 3.8 rebounds per game. Doug McDermott, known for his sharpshooting, would bring experienced depth to the squad. Plus, snagging two future first-round picks gives the Clippers valuable assets to either rebuild or trade for more immediate help.
Moving Paul George might seem bold, but it could make sense for the Clippers. They get younger, add depth, and secure draft assets that could set them up for the future. As for George, his stats last season—22.6 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game—show he’s still a force on the court.
In Indiana, George’s arrival would be huge. Teaming up with Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam, who are leading the Pacers in the Eastern Conference Semifinals, could push the team to the next level. George’s experience and scoring ability would complement Haliburton’s playmaking and Siakam’s versatility, creating a dynamic trio capable of contending in the East.
This trade isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s about strategic fit. George knows the Pacers, the city, and some of the management. His return could be the spark Indiana needs to go from a semi-final team to a genuine title contender. For the Clippers, it’s about reshaping a team that needs to get younger and more flexible financially while still staying competitive. It’s a bold move, but one that could benefit both sides immensely.
James Harden Sign-And-Trade To The Heat
James Harden’s time with the Clippers seems to be nearing an end. After a disappointing finish in the first round of the playoffs, the Clippers could be looking to move Harden as part of a broader youth-focused rebuild.
Los Angeles Clippers Receive: Tyler Herro
Miami Heat Receive: James Harden, Bones Hyland
This deal seems like a win-win for both teams. The Clippers land Tyler Herro, a young sharpshooter who could quickly become the new face of the franchise. Herro averaged 20.8 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game last season, showcasing his scoring ability and playmaking skills. His youth and potential make him an ideal centerpiece for the Clippers’ retooling efforts.
The Miami Heat, in need of a true point guard and always keen to shake things up, would receive James Harden, whose playmaking and scoring would be a huge boost. Last season, Harden put up 16.6 points, 8.5 assists, and 5.1 rebounds per game. He could be the perfect partner for Bam Adebayo in pick-and-roll situations and help relieve Jimmy Butler of some playmaking duties, allowing Butler to focus more on scoring.
Additionally, the Heat would get Bones Hyland, a promising young guard known for his energy and scoring off the bench. Hyland’s versatility and potential to grow could make him a valuable asset for Miami as they continue to contend in the Eastern Conference.
For the Clippers, acquiring Herro represents a strategic move towards youth and scoring prowess, keeping the team competitive while also building for the future. Meanwhile, the Heat would solidify their backcourt and enhance their championship aspirations by adding a seasoned veteran like Harden, known for his ability to take over games and his playoff experience. This trade could reshape both teams, giving them what they need to tackle their respective challenges in the coming seasons.
The Los Angeles Clippers Should Let Go Of Russell Westbrook
As the Los Angeles Clippers assess their roster moving forward, it’s becoming evident that Russell Westbrook may not be the right fit. Despite his stellar regular-season contributions, Westbrook’s performance in the postseason left much to be desired, raising questions about his compatibility with the team’s young core. With reports circulating about Westbrook seeking opportunities elsewhere, it’s clear that a change is imminent.
For the Clippers, parting ways with Westbrook could open up avenues for younger talent to flourish and for the team to explore different play styles. Westbrook’s $4 million Player Option could be better utilized elsewhere if he rejects it and enters free agency, especially if the Clippers aim to bolster their roster with players who better complement their emerging stars.
As Westbrook hits free agency, teams like the New Orleans Pelicans or a return to Oklahoma City Thunder could provide him with the opportunity he seeks, even if it means accepting a half MLE deal in the range of $7-8 million per season. It’s a move that could benefit both Westbrook and the Clippers as they chart their respective paths forward.
Young Clippers Debut In Intuit Dome
Starting Lineup: Tyler Herro, Bennedict Mathurin, Andrew Wiggins, Jonathan Kuminga, Ivica Zubac
Bench: Terance Mann, Aaron Nesmith, Norman Powell, Gary Payton II, Amir Coffey, Robert Covington, Goga Bitadze
The Los Angeles Clippers are gearing up for an exciting season at the Intuit Dome with a young and dynamic lineup. The starting roster features Tyler Herro, Bennedict Mathurin, Andrew Wiggins, Jonathan Kuminga, and Ivica Zubac, promising a mix of sharpshooting, athleticism, and solid defense.
Herro, freshly arrived from Miami, is set to lead the team’s offense, complemented by Mathurin’s energetic play and Wiggins’ experienced wing presence. Kuminga offers versatility and high-flying action, while Zubac holds down the paint with reliable rebounding and rim protection.
Off the bench, the Clippers boast depth with players like Terance Mann, Aaron Nesmith, and Norman Powell, each ready to contribute in various roles. Gary Payton II and Amir Coffey add defensive prowess and hustle, enhancing the team’s perimeter defense.
New signings Robert Covington and Goga Bitadze, coming from the 76ers and Orlando respectively, bring veteran leadership and additional defensive capabilities. Covington is known for his three-point shooting and defensive versatility, while Bitadze provides depth at the center position.
This revamped Clippers team is designed not just to entertain but to compete, blending youthful energy with strategic veteran additions, ready to make a mark in their new home at the Intuit Dome.
A New Chapter For The Clippers Starts
As the Los Angeles Clippers usher in a new era at the Intuit Dome, they are not just moving into a new home—they are fundamentally reshaping their identity. With a roster brimming with young talent and a few strategic veteran additions, the Clippers are poised to offer fans an exciting brand of basketball.
Tyler Herro, Bennedict Mathurin, and Jonathan Kuminga represent the new core of the team, each bringing unique skills that promise to energize the Clippers’ offensive and defensive schemes. Andrew Wiggins and Ivica Zubac add the necessary experience and stability to guide the younger players through the rigors of an NBA season.
The Clippers’ strategy indicates a clear shift towards building a sustainable and exciting team capable of growing together and challenging the established powers in the NBA. As they settle into the Intuit Dome, the Clippers are not just looking to compete; they are looking to captivate, making every game a must-watch event for fans. This season marks the beginning of a promising chapter, one filled with the potential for growth, thrilling plays, and the pursuit of championship glory.
