Should the LA Clippers pursue Rajon Rondo
Rajon Rondo had an up and down regular season with the Los Angeles Lakers and while we didn’t exactly see “Playoff Rondo” to its full potential, he proved to be valuable for a team that was looking for consistent efforts off the bench.
During the playoffs, Rondo averaged nine points, seven rebounds, and four rebounds per game on 46 percent shooting from the field and 40 percent shooting from 3-point range. He also played stingy defense and provided some much-needed veteran leadership.
Even though he’s no longer in the prime of his career, Rondo is expected to be one of the most sought after veteran free agents on the open market this offseason. According to a recent report from Marc Stein, both the Lakers and LA Clippers will have interest in his services.
The Clippers have interest in signing the Lakers' Rajon Rondo, league sources say, and are expected to pursue Rondo when free agency opens in November
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) October 28, 2020
Even with one of the deepest teams in the NBA, the Clippers are coming off somewhat of a disappointing season. Changes are likely coming during the offseason and while it’s not exactly clear what those could consist of, it would be unfair to expect LA to return the same team next season.
Montrezl Harrell, Marcus Morris, and Reggie Jackson are all free agents that could move on to different teams this offseason. In their absence, it’s likely that the Clippers could seek other options. One potential is Rajon Rondo. As a backup point guard option, there’s no question that Rondo would be an interesting addition.
As long as Rondo isn’t forced into a role that he, at this point in his career, isn’t comfortable with or able to fill, he’d be a great addition. As long as it doesn’t mess up its cap situation, Rondo should be a candidate for the Clippers.
It can’t be the only move that the Clippers make, however. Entering the 2019-20 season, the Clippers were considered the heavy favorites to win the championship. The top fell out in the Eastern Conference Semifinals was considered a huge disappointment.
I’m not sure if Rajon Rondo moves the needle enough, but he’d be a great start for reshuffling this team’s supporting cast heading into the 2021 season.