Los Angeles Clippers: Three Undervalued Free Agent Prospects in 2019

LOS ANGELES, CA - MARCH 27: Jerry West and Steve Balmer enjoy the game between the Milwaukee Bucks and LA Clippers on March 27, 2018 at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles, 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 2018 NBAE (Photo by Andrew D. Bernstein/NBAE via Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CA - MARCH 27: Jerry West and Steve Balmer enjoy the game between the Milwaukee Bucks and LA Clippers on March 27, 2018 at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles, 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 2018 NBAE (Photo by Andrew D. Bernstein/NBAE via Getty Images)
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CLEVELAND, OH – APRIL 1: Harrison Barnes #40 of the Dallas Mavericks runs back on defense against the Cleveland Cavaliers during the second half at Quicken Loans Arena on April 1, 2018 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Cavaliers defeated the Mavericks 98-87. 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. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Harrison Barnes
CLEVELAND, OH – APRIL 1: Harrison Barnes #40 of the Dallas Mavericks runs back on defense against the Cleveland Cavaliers during the second half at Quicken Loans Arena on April 1, 2018 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Cavaliers defeated the Mavericks 98-87. 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. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Harrison Barnes

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.

PROJECTED SALARY: 75-80 Million, 4 Years.