With free agency right around the corner, LA Clippers big man Marreese Speights has opted out of his contract and will test the market.
Marreese Speights has opted out of his $2.1 million contract, making him a free agent according to CBS. Most likely, the big man will test the free agency market and sign on with a contender, much like he did with the LA Clippers last offseason.
This doesn’t bode well for the Clips, as they already will have a lot of trouble signing bench players if they are able to hold onto Chris Paul and Blake Griffin. Speights shot a career high from three point range this season and was a perfect compliment to both Blake Griffin and DeAndre Jordan.
Marreese Speights brought a championship pedigree to the team and was seemingly the groups de facto enforcer. He gave the team some toughness and was not afraid to speak his mind. Him departing makes sense, as he will likely be able to gain a little more money and a larger role, while still having a chance to compete. it also makes sense when looking back on his comments during the year. Back in December, Speights seemed frustrated with how the team handled adverse situations.
"“First we need to start really just leaving the refs alone,” Speights said. “Guys just got to sacrifice, do some other things than scoring, do some other things than your personal goals. Just try something new.“They’ve been doing it here for four or five years and it hasn’t been working, so it’s time to try something new.”"
The LA Clippers will have to look for a new big man, while still trying to bring back their own players. It will be difficult to find a replacement with their lack of cap room, especially with bigs who can shoot the three ball being a premium in the league.
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