The Los Angeles Clippers are entering a new phase this season following Paul George’s departure to the Philadelphia 76ers. In response, the team has extended James Harden’s contract and brought in gritty defenders like Kris Dunn and Derrick Jones Jr. While the roster might lack elite talent with Harden past his prime and Kawhi Leonard often injured, the team has enough depth to make a playoff run.
Currently, the Clippers are not seen as true contenders. To compete effectively, they will need to revamp their roster and add more impactful players. This could involve making tough decisions, such as trading Norman Powell and Terance Mann, to balance the team’s contracts. An advantageous opportunity could be a trade with the Washington Wizards.
Proposed Trade Details:
– **Los Angeles Clippers Receive**: Kyle Kuzma, Malcolm Brogdon
– **Washington Wizards Receive**: Norman Powell, Terance Mann, P.J. Tucker, Bones Hyland, 2030 First-Round Pick Swap (LAC)
This trade would not only disrupt the Lakers’ rumored pursuit of Kuzma but also potentially position the Clippers as a more formidable team at the start of the season. Although Malcolm Brogdon cannot be traded until September 4 due to his recent move to the Wizards from the Blazers in exchange for Deni Avdija, he would likely welcome the chance to join a competitive squad.
**Contender Status for the Clippers**
With the right additions, the Clippers could become a serious contender for a top-four seed. Harden and Leonard remain elite when healthy, but their age and injury concerns pose challenges. Harden’s performance can be inconsistent, and Leonard’s knee issues could sideline him unexpectedly.
Adding Brogdon and Kuzma would address these issues by providing reliable support. Brogdon, who averaged 15.7 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 5.5 assists with the Blazers last season, could serve as a valuable sixth man or starting backcourt partner for Harden, offering flexibility and ball-handling capabilities.
Kuzma, who averaged 22.2 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 4.2 assists last season, brings proven scoring and defensive skills. His ability to rebound, defend multiple positions, and contribute offensively would enhance the Clippers significantly. Despite previously refusing a trade to the Mavericks, Kuzma might find a return to Los Angeles appealing.
While Powell and Mann’s departure would be notable losses, acquiring Brogdon and Kuzma would elevate the Clippers’ roster, providing the flexibility needed to better manage their aging stars and prepare for a playoff push.
