The Utah Jazz made a huge move in the offseason by engaging in a three-team trade to send John Collins to the Los Angeles Clippers. While very little was known about why this deal was done, ESPN’s Tim MacMahon shed some light on this subject on “The Hoop Collective Podcast”. He said:
“He was too damn productive last season. I don’t even remember all the injuries they came up with to make sure he didn’t play. They limited him to 40 games last year. He played in 70+% of their wins. They didn’t win much, but they won too often with John Collins in the lineup, and he was a reason. They had to get rid of him. They couldn’t have him on the roster.”
Although MacMahon’s revelation may sound speculative, there may be some truth to it. Collins was undoubtedly one of Utah’s most effective players last season. After recording an average of 19.2 points and 8.2 rebounds per game, the 27-year-old displayed tremendous productivity on offense.
Collins’ greatest asset has been his versatility, which was brought out by Trae Young in Atlanta. The forward has incredible athleticism and jumping ability. This consistently makes him a lob threat when he is on the floor.
If he is not near the rim, Collins remains a threat as he has a smooth stroke from midrange and even beyond the arc. Last season, he averaged shooting splits of 52.7% from the field and 39.9% from three-point range. These are impressive numbers, especially for someone who only played in 40 games and couldn’t settle into a consistent rhythm.
Collins’ departure from Utah may be for his benefit. As a talented forward in the league, the Clippers could provide the right opportunity for him to shine and showcase his talents.
MacMahon suggested that the forward could be more effective coming off the bench for the Clippers to play alongside Brook Lopez. An inside-outside combo with Lopez spacing the floor certainly has merit. But the possibilities of pairing Collins with James Harden may be favored by some people.
Harden is coming off a masterful display in the regular season. With an average of 22.8 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 8.1 assists per game, Harden was the driving force behind the Clippers’ offense.
Harden has been a phenomenal playmaker throughout his career. With his vision and passing, an athletic player like Collins would benefit from their pairing.
The Clippers will be a competitive side next season. While Norman Powell’s departure does affect their backcourt scoring, the team is actively looking to make up for it by signing Bradley Beal after he completes his buyout with the Phoenix Suns.
