As the NBA Trade Deadline quickly approaches, the Los Angeles Clippers should probably stand pat in an attempt to keep their free agency flexibility
The NBA Trade Deadline is roughly a week and a half away, and the rumor mill is expected to pick up over the course of the next few days. One team that probably should remain out of this year’s trade season is the Los Angeles Clippers.
The Clippers have all eyes on the upcoming free agency period, as they theoretically have room for two max players. With the likes of Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving, Kawhi Leonard and other big names set to hit the open market, losing cap space this summer to add a player to simply just ensure an appearance this season is not something they should pursue.
Other than Danilo Gallinari‘s $22 million for next season, the Clippers don’t have any player on contract for next season over $8 million.
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The Clippers will have a ton of flexibility to play with, and could probably even move Galo if they absolutely need to at the NBA Draft (he’ll be an expiring contract next season).
Even though the Clippers are within reach of clinching a playoff spot this season, which would truly be one of the greatest accomplishments considering the steep competition in the Western Conference, Los Angeles should play it safe over the next week and a half and stand pat.
Los Angeles is already playing with house money this season, and making the playoffs with this non-star studded roster could make them an even more intriguing landing spot for free agents during the off-season.
The Clippers are currently 8th in the Western Conference, but are only two games ahead of the Los Angeles Lakers – who many still expect to finish in the top 8, when LeBron James makes his return this season.
Doc Rivers has done a wonderful job this season in Los Angeles, and making the playoffs won’t have a real driving factor in this team’s immediate outlook. For the Clippers, their future was always about the summer of 2019.
It’s nearly here, and the team can’t afford to ruin their opportunity by making a short-sighted play in an attempt to hold off the Lakers or Utah Jazz for the final spot in the Western Conference playoffs.
The Los Angeles Clippers should stick to their master plan and stand pat at the NBA Trade Deadline.