The Backup
Royalty has returned to Los Angeles and I am not talking about LeBron James. Talented perimeter defender and Cameroonian prince Luc Mbah a Moute signed with the Clippers after spending last season with the Houston Rockets.
Mbah a Moute is one of the best perimeter defenders in the NBA. His impact with the Rockets last season was apparent. He, along with PJ Tucker and Trevor Ariza, helped propel Houston to have the sixth-ranked defense in the league last season.
While Mbah a Moute has always been a good defender, his offensive game has prevented him from getting more recognition. However, Mbah a Moute has vastly improved as a shooter over the past two seasons. Last year he shot 36.4% from three, which was the second-highest of his career, and made a career-high of one three per game.
Opposing defenses have to respect Mbah a Moute on the perimeter now, which has allowed him to stay on the floor for more than just defensive situations. In today’s game, every team is looking for wings who can shoot and defend, so the Clippers signing Mbah a Moute for only $4.32 million was easily one of the best deals of the offseason.
Mbah a Moute should be the backup small forward this season, but that does not mean that he will not see significant minutes. He can play alongside either Gallinari or Harris. Considering Gallinari’s injury history, having a player of Mbah a Moute’s caliber coming off the bench provides the Clippers with a reliable insurance plan this season.