The Los Angeles Clippers have to regroup following the departure of All-Star swingman Paul George, who signed a $212 million deal with the Philadelphia 76ers this summer. The Clippers still have Kawhi Leonard and James Harden on the team so there is star power for the team to have championship aspirations, but whether they can get over the hump remains to be seen. Looking ahead to the new season, we have divided the Clippers roster into six tiers.
Tier 1: Superstars
Kawhi Leonard
Kawhi Leonard remains the cornerstone of the Clippers’ roster, bringing elite scoring, defense, and leadership. In the 2023-24 season, Leonard averaged 23.7 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game while shooting 41.7% from three, proving he is still one of the top two-way players in the NBA when healthy. The team’s success hinges largely on Leonard’s ability to stay on the court and perform at his peak, especially in the playoffs. However, there are doubts about the player staying healthy since he only made two playoff appearances after being available for 68 regular-season games. Leonard seems to be getting more unhealthy as he has aged and that doesn’t bode well for the Clippers franchise that needs their superstar healthy for most of the season.
Tier 2: All-Stars
James Harden
James Harden brings his playmaking and scoring prowess to the Clippers, hoping to take a step up from last season to form a formidable duo with Kawhi Leonard. In the 2023-24 season, Harden averaged 16.6 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 8.5 assists per game, continuing to be one of the league’s best facilitators. His ability to generate offense for himself and his teammates will be crucial for the Clippers, especially with Paul George’s departure, as they look to contend in the loaded Western Conference. The Beard has to take his scoring to over 20 points per game at a minimum and if he does, the Clippers could be tough to handle if Kawhi Leonard stays healthy.
Tier 3: Fringe All-Stars
None
Tier 4: Key Role Players
Norman Powell, Ivica Zubac, Derrick Jones Jr., Terance Mann
Norman Powell provides the Clippers with a consistent scoring punch off the bench, averaging 13.9 points per game on 43.5% shooting from three in 2023-24. However, he needs to be a more important player for the Clippers and that means becoming the team’s official third option. His ability to attack the rim and hit timely shots makes him a vital part of the Clippers’ rotation. Powell’s role as a spark plug and secondary scorer will be even more important with the departure of Paul George.
Ivica Zubac is the Clippers’ anchor in the middle, providing solid rim protection and rebounding. He averaged 11.7 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game last season, playing a crucial role in maintaining the team’s interior presence. Zubac’s ability to defend the paint and finish around the basket will be key for the Clippers’ defensive and offensive schemes. After signing a new three-year deal worth $58.6 million, Zubac must be a reliable starter for the team all year.
Derrick Jones Jr. brings elite athleticism and defensive versatility to the Clippers after a strong season with the Dallas Mavericks last year. Known for his quickness on the fast break and improved all-around defense, Jones Jr. averaged 8.6 points and 3.3 rebounds per game last season while providing valuable minutes as a defensive stopper. His ability to guard multiple positions and contribute in transition adds depth to the Clippers’ forward rotation and could prove to be an excellent pickup for them.
Terance Mann is a versatile wing who can impact the game on both ends of the floor. Last season, Mann averaged 8.8 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game, showcasing his ability to do a little bit of everything. His defensive tenacity and ability to handle the ball make him a key part of the Clippers’ rotation, especially when injuries hit the team. No doubt, Mann will have to take a bigger role with Paul George gone.
Tier 5: Supplementary Pieces
Kevin Porter Jr., PJ Tucker, Kris Dunn, Nicolas Batum, Bones Hyland, Kai Jones
Kevin Porter Jr. is a dynamic young guard with the ability to score and create for others, though consistency has been a challenge (along with off-court issues). The Clippers decided to bring in the polarizing player after some concerning behavior, but they are giving the player another chance to prove his worth. Porter did not play in the NBA last year but he averaged 19.2 points and 5.7 assists per game in 2022-23, providing flashes of brilliance as an offensive player. Hopefully, the Clippers can somehow get the best of the young player.
PJ Tucker brings toughness, veteran leadership, and elite corner three-point shooting to the Clippers. Although his stats (1.7 points and 2.7 rebounds per game last season) don’t jump off the page, Tucker’s impact is felt through his defense and ability to hit clutch shots. However, the Clippers don’t seem to be too fond of Tucker which is why he only averaged 15.7 minutes per game last year but that might change in 2024-25.
Kris Dunn is a defensive-minded guard who adds depth to the Clippers’ backcourt and the team wanted him on board this summer. He averaged 5.4 points, 3.8 assists, and 1.0 steals per game last season, playing a crucial role as a disruptor on defense. Dunn’s ability to defend opposing guards and provide steady playmaking off the bench makes him a valuable role player.
Nicolas Batum, at nearly 36 years old, is a versatile forward who can stretch the floor and defend multiple positions. Last season, he averaged 5.3 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game, contributing as a savvy veteran presence. Batum’s ability to hit threes and make smart plays keeps him in the rotation, especially in critical moments.
Bones Hyland is an explosive scorer off the bench who can heat up in a hurry. He averaged 6.9 points per game last season, providing instant offense with his ability to create his shot and knock down threes. The Clippers will rely on Hyland to provide a scoring punch in the second unit, especially when the starters need rest and he could see a bigger role in 2024-25 as well.
The 23-year-old Kai Jones is an athletic big man with potential as a rim-runner and shot-blocker. Although he’s still developing his character and hoping to be more mature, Jones has shown flashes of his athleticism and energy. The Clippers hope to continue developing his game and are giving him another chance as well, so we have high hopes for Jones.
Tier 6: Bench
Amir Coffey, Mo Bamba, Kobe Brown
Amir Coffey provides depth on the wing, bringing energy and versatility to the Clippers. While his minutes were limited last season, Coffey can step in when needed and contribute on both ends of the floor. He posted 6.6 points and 2.1 rebounds per game in 20.9 minutes per game last season and could see similar opportunities in 2024-25 as well.
Mo Bamba is a shot-blocking center that is developing offensive game. His ability to protect the rim and stretch the floor with occasional three-point shooting makes him a useful backup big man. He only posted 4.4 points and 4.2 rebounds per game last season so hopefully, he can start realizing his potential as a two-way big man.
The 6’7” Kobe Brown is a young power forward with potential who will likely spend much of the season developing his skills. While he may not see significant playing time early, Brown’s size and versatility could earn him a role in the future since he is 24 years old with only one season under his belt as a professional.
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