LA Clippers: 3 players to target at the trade deadline

LA Clippers trade candidate No. 1: Dennis Schroder

Dennis Schroder isn’t likely to return to Boston next season and would be an intriguing fit for the Clippers. The nine-year veteran has had an up-and-down season in Boston, struggling to fit on a team that needs spacing around its two young stars.

With Boston being unable to sign him past this year, he already has one foot out the door, looking to help improve a team’s playoff chances. On the season, Schroder is averaging 14.8 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 4.5 assists a night, while shooting 43.7 percent from the field and 35.2 percent from 3.

Schroder has frustrated Celtics fans with his slow pace of play, but that’s something certain teams could benefit from. When he’s on the court, he assumes the role of floor general, playing at his own, slow pace, while likely getting an open shot for himself. These zero-pass possessions can be baffling at times, but when Schroder starts hitting his first few shots, he can explode for a 30+ point outing instantly.

The Clippers’ main issue in the 2021-22 campaign has been their offensive efficiency – they currently hold the league’s 25th best offensive in terms of offensive rating, a number that is certainly impacted by the injuries to Leonard and George. Therefore, when Reggie Jackson doesn’t have it going, a player like Dennis Schroder could step in as an offensive creator, despite his shortcomings as an overall point guard.

Schroder wouldn’t be perfect on every team, but the Clippers are in desperate need of a player with his skillset.

In terms of a specific trade, the Celtics will likely have first-round pick offers in exchange for Schroder. With the first Clippers’ first available first-rounder being in 2027, they may opt to part with a young player instead.