SHOOTING GUARD : AVERY BRADLEY
The 6’2 Washington native, having come off an injury riddled season, re-signed with the Clippers this off-season for a marginally steep $25 million, two-year deal.
While proving to be an invaluable two way player for the Celtics, his failure to stay healthy and adapt suitably to the Van Gundy system was a considerable setback. Having played fewer than 60 games in five of his eight seasons, it deteriorated his reputation in the league with fellow franchises questioning his ability to stay on the floor. Barring fitness concerns, Bradley has a well-defined skill set on both ends of the court.
Aggregating nearly 37% from three, he remains a potent threat from beyond the arc. In addition, being an effective off-ball cutter and a lethal transition player, it’s plausible that he plays a significant role on the offensive end.
On the contrary, where his forte lies is on the defensive end of the floor. The former All-NBA Defensive First Team electee has indicated his influence as an on-ball defender and exhibited his potency off the ball too. Starting alongside Beverley, he will be associated with the best defensive backcourt in the NBA.
While the Clippers possess a deep backcourt, Bradley was a player that Rivers favored over the Hall of Famer Ray Allen in his Celtic days, and his inclination for him is unlikely to change. While Williams and Robinson are likely to have a superior offensive impact playing the 2, they possess evident defensive frailties in their game.
The prowess of amassing defensive stops at will due to their length and IQ make Gilgeous-Alexander and Bradley an ideal collaboration for this lineup.