Los Angeles Clippers: Grading Free Agent Acquisitions

Cole Aldrich

Dec 27, 2014; Sacramento, CA, USA; New York Knicks center Cole Aldrich (45) prepares to shoot the ball against the Sacramento Kings in the second quarter at Sleep Train Arena. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports

Grade: C-

Part of what makes a good general manager is the ability to balance out rosters. For a Clippers team with a very talented starting center, a power forward capable of playing minutes at center, and a small-ball wing who could replicate what Draymond Green gives the Warriors at center from time to time, the Clippers’ success isn’t hinged on an uber-successful and talented backup center, hence the acquisition of Cole Aldrich.

Limited funds had always put the Clippers in line to take a risk on a low-cost talent to fulfill the duty and with Aldrich, it’ll be interesting to see how he pans out in the role. I for one am not too familiar with Aldrich, but after digging through film to see what he can provide to the Clippers, if he’s able to sustain the intensity and energy seen during his lone season with the New York Knicks (averaged 5.5 points, 5.5 rebounds, 1.1 blocks) while matching those traits with the ability to defend the rim at a respectable rate and rebound, he’ll be perfect for a job that has yielded the likes of Ryan Hollins, Glen Davis, and Spencer Hawes over the last three years.