Los Angeles Clippers: Three Undervalued Free Agent Prospects in 2019
By Abhishek S
HARRISON BARNES – SF/PF (PLAYER OPTION)
A classic case of a player whose exorbitant contract masks his production on the floor. Harrison Barnes has consistently upped his performances under the mentorship of highly regarded coach Rick Carlisle. With durability proving to be an understated trait in the NBA, his ability to stay on the floor evinces great value. The combo forward has exhibited his potential by making substantial contributions on both ends of the floor. His length and lateral quickness on the defensive end accompanied by his three-level scoring threat offensively, makes him an ideal modern era wing.
In addition, his on-court demeanor, high IQ plays and character to stay calm and collected in critical situations quickly turned him into a Jerry West favorite. Being a former lottery pick, he cemented himself as a pivotal member of the Warriors’ 2015 Championship winning roster. Having validated claims of being a multifaceted combo forward, he possesses the competitive edge that could intrigue the Clippers in the forthcoming off-season.
Under the direction of Doc Rivers, he could experience a jump in usage rate which will bump up his production. Nonetheless, his lofty contract demands could prove to be a hindrance. Pocketing roughly 25 million in the approaching season, his salary fails to warrant his performances. In the unlikely scenario that he drops his salary demands, he could appeal to the Clippers as a promising prospect.
With the Clippers looking to ameliorate their roster, Harrison Barnes could prove to be a shrewd inclusion. Given his skill-set, an annual income of roughly 20 million will evince a high ceiling addition.