Analyzing the value of the Clippers picks: A look back at recent drafts

PLAYA VISTA, CA- JUNE 19: Lawrence Frank, Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations, and Head Coach Doc Rivers of the Los Angeles Clippers name Jerry West as Special Consultant at a press conference in Playa Vista, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2016 NBAE (Photo by Andrew D. Bernstein/NBAE via Getty Images)
PLAYA VISTA, CA- JUNE 19: Lawrence Frank, Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations, and Head Coach Doc Rivers of the Los Angeles Clippers name Jerry West as Special Consultant at a press conference in Playa Vista, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2016 NBAE (Photo by Andrew D. Bernstein/NBAE via Getty Images)
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Pick #12: Steven Adams

Steven Adams was selected 12th overall out of Pittsburgh by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the 2013 NBA Draft. Since being drafted, the New Zealander has been a consistent presence down low for OKC. Adams has improved statistically every season in the league and has turned into one of the better centers in the NBA.  Adams consistency on both ends of the floor were a huge part of the Thunder team that was up 3-1 on the Golden State Warriors in 2016, just narrowly missing the NBA Finals.

If DeAndre Jordan and the Clippers do eventually part ways this offseason, Jerry West and company would be excited to have a player of Adams caliber join the squad on a rookie deal.

Pick #13: Kelly Olynyk

Kelly Olynyk was drafted 13th overall by the Dallas Mavericks before being immediately traded to the Boston Celtics. The former All-American at Gonzaga was a solid role player for four seasons with the Celtics before signing with the Heat this past season. Olynyk is a decent scorer who can stretch the floor from the five-spot, but leaves a lot to be desired on the defensive end.

As a fringe-starter who is probably better suited off the bench, the Clippers would probably want a better return from the 13th pick. However, Olynyk is a high-IQ player who can add flexibility and shooting to any NBA offense. A center who can shoot has a lot of value in today’s NBA.