Trade #4
Now, these last two trades are trades I believe the Clippers wouldn’t make for two reasons, one being that both players mean a lot to the identity of this year’s team and two being that it might mess up the overall team chemistry.
But, they make too much sense for the future of this team.
Patrick Beverley has been the main emotional leader of this year’s Clippers team which is what every team needs. He is starting to regain his 3-point shot again, while playing his hounding 94-feet of on-ball and off-ball defense.
Beverley doesn’t let any player, official or fan push him around and it showed several instances this year. The Phoenix Suns are in desperate need of a starting point guard. Beverley playing right next to young guard Devin Booker might be the answer.
If you recall, Patrick played next to former MVP James Harden for several seasons as the two played well together. Booker needs a loud voice to be able to help him develop his game more and, Beverley would do just that.
Phoenix and LA have previously discussed a deal for Beverley in the off-season, but the Clippers wanted a 1st-Round Pick for him. Now that it is halfway through the season, the Clippers price tag may have dropped as a result of his play this year.
This deal would be a good return for both teams. Richaun Holmes is very underrated and has played well in his short time in Phoenix and previously with the Philadelphia 76ers. He would be a nice addition at the center position.
If the Suns were to add Dragan Bender, I think this deal is a no brainer. Though he hasn’t provided much to the Suns and being a former #4 overall pick in 2016, Bender is still only 21 years old and has time to develop his game, which he can with the LA Clippers.