LA Clippers: 3 Positional Needs If They Land Kawhi Leonard

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TORONTO, CANADA – MAY 25: Malcolm Brogdon #13 of the Milwaukee Bucks handles the ball during the game against Danny Green #14 of the Toronto Raptors during Game Six of the Eastern Conference Finals on May 25, 2019 at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. 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 2019 NBAE (Photo by Ron Turenne/NBAE via Getty Images) /

Backup Point Guard

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has the starting point guard spot locked down for the foreseeable future. This season, the backup guard spot was handled by both Patrick Beverley (who started but would share minutes with the bench), Lou Williams and occasionally others.

If the team is going to make a run at a championship, they’ll need to add a true backup point guard.

The first focus, of course, should be Patrick Beverley. Yes, his play on the court fits perfectly with this team and he would already have chemistry built, but his biggest benefit comes from his demeanor and leadership. Bev helped build the identity of this Clippers’ team, so bringing him back would help cement that.

If Beverley cannot be had, there are some other interesting options to play the backup PG spot.

Malcolm Brogdon just proved his worth to the Milwaukee Bucks in the playoffs, but he is a restricted free agent and likely will stay.

Darren Collison could also be brought back to LA, but the 10 year veteran has had some injury troubles.

Elfrid Payton might be worth a look. He is only 25 years old and for his career, has averaged 11.1 points, 4.4 rebounds and 6.6 assists. He may be a bit too pricey for the Clippers though, considering he’s still a younger prospect.

Probably the best fit available here (besides Bev), would be Ricky Rubio. It all comes down to price. Rubio is a savvy veteran who excels on defense and doesn’t necessarily need the ball. He can work well with the bench unit, setting up both Lou Williams and Montrezl Harrell. Rubio will likely be highly sought after, so the Clippers may need to be willing to spend a little if they want to get him.

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