Clippers Free Agency: 5 potential backup centers to sign
By Tom West
Nene Hilario
Nene Hilario could be the best option for the Clippers, even with the injury troubles he’s had in recent years, holding him to an average of 59.5 games over the last four seasons.
Even though he can’t replace the rim protection that Cole Aldrich brought to the second unit with his 3.1 blocks per 36 minutes, Nene is still a stout defender in the post as one of the strongest veterans in the league.
His playing time fell to only 19.2 minutes per game last season with 11 starts, but Nene still contributed off the bench. With averages of 17.3 points, 8.5 rebounds, 3.2 assists and 1.8 steals per 36 minutes, his effort was high, his strong rolls to the basket were evident, and his smooth mid-range game was still effective. Such assets can benefit the Clippers and he’ll offer some toughness down low to replace Aldrich as best as possible on a minimum contract.
The past injury issues, his age (33) and declining defense are a concern, but the Clippers can only hope that lowers his market value. At this point, a skilful, experienced veteran like Nene is pretty much the best they can pursue at center if he doesn’t get more money elsewhere.
(Update: Barely 10 minutes before I published this article, Adrian Wojnarowski dropped a small bomb revealing that Nene has come to a one-year, $2.9 agreement with the Houston Rockets. Why’d you have to do it, Houston? Continue to the next four options.)
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