With the beginning of free-agency just days away, the LA Clippers have their name attached to a two-time NBA Champion, and former Finals MVP, Andre Iguodala.
NBA Free Agency. It’s a summer-long Christmas for NBA fans. Waking up and checking your phone and seeing the latest breaking news is one of the most exciting feelings for us as fans. Another exciting part is when there are rumors, especially involving your team. Today, we got a big one: The LA Clippers are interested in Andre Iguodala.
On Tuesday, ESPN’s Chris Haynes reported that the Clippers are one of seven teams that are targeting Sixth-Man finalist and two-time NBA Champion, Andre Iguodala.
ESPN Sources: How to weaken the Golden State Warriors? Andre Iguodala has become a targeted man. https://t.co/8dcXIUtdjk
— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) June 27, 2017
Iguodala, who is 33 years old, is set to become a free agent this week. According to Haynes, it’s ‘unclear’ if the 13-year vet plans on meeting with any teams. However, Shams Charania of ‘The Vertical’ reported that Iguodala plans to seriously consider other teams.
The seven teams reportedly interested are the Timberwolves, Nets, Jazz, 76ers, Magic, Spurs, and Clippers. Quite an interesting assortment of teams. The LA Clippers and Spurs appear to be the only two contending teams from that list. The Timberwolves are an up-and-coming team, and a homecoming in Philadelphia sure would be great.
After making $11 million last year, Iguodala may be seeking a higher payday. The Magic, Nets, and 76ers are all in rebuild mode, and could sure use a veteran presence in that locker room.
How the Clippers can get it done
Assuming the Clippers re-sign Blake Griffin & Chris Paul, it’ll be tough to offer Iguodala the kind of contract he’s expecting. If Jerry West, whom Iggy is very familiar with, can get him to buy into the culture the Clippers are trying to build, it just might work. Lacking a small forward, Iguodala can very well end up starting for the Clippers this upcoming season. If not, he would be a perfect complimentary wing off the bench. Not only bringing leadership and experience to the table, but a defensive specialist to pair with Austin off the bench would be huge.
Iguodala, who has started only one game over the last three seasons, has averaged only 7.5 points per game. For the Clippers, one of the highest scoring teams in the league, that is okay with them. Bringing back the same healthy team, as well as taking a piece away from Golden State, gives the Clippers a shot at dethroning the champs as Western Conference Champions.
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