The LA Clippers might not end up getting Kawhi Leonard, but even if they don’t, they’ll still be very well-positioned going into the future.
I’m sure we are all tired of all the news swirling about Kawhi Leonard this past week. Luckily, it seems as though Leonard is on the verge of his decision. The Los Angeles Lakers, LA Clippers and Toronto Raptors are all still in the conversation. Although the Lakers and Raptors are nervously awaiting Leonard’s decision, the Clippers may be at ease. They’re the most prepared either with Kawhi or without him.
Within the whole Lakers roster, there are 10 unfilled spots. They are putting everything on the line for Leonard’s decision. They have already missed out on several good free agents that would fulfill needs, while the Clippers and Raptors have maintained the bulk of their squads. As we’ve seen, Patrick Beverley has already re-signed with the Clippers, while the Raptors hung on to Marc Gasol. The only decent free agent the Lakers have been able to acquire is Jared Dudley, and his sub-par shooting won’t help them much.
Leonard isn’t the type to want to play alongside LeBron James. He wants to be a leader on his team, like he was this past season in Toronto, fully evolving into the star we have grown to love. He has adapted to this role in basketball, and it’s hard to imagine he’ll ever want to live in another star’s shadow, especially James’.
Earlier today, Cris Carter reported that Leonard will not be deciding today and it won’t be a short-term one- or two-year deal. Instead, it’ll be a long-term commitment, regardless of where he goes.
In my opinion, this benefits the LA Clippers. While Leonard deliberates, they have already made necessary adjustments and have a plan in place if doesn’t end up in a Clipper uniform. Jerry West is proven in these situations. The Clippers have already acquired Maurice Harkless, a defensive talent from the Portland Trail Blazers.
Not only was Harkless acquired, but Rodney McGruder was re-signed as well. This adds more grit and young talent, McGruder’s shooting and defensive presence is going to be special. The grit and constant pursuit of defense is what the Clippers front office has focused on this off-season and past year. What would be more of a cherry on top but signing Kawhi Leonard to a long-term deal?
The lineup the Raptors have created fit Kawhi for one year, but with this new report of Kawhi wanting a long-term deal, the Raptors could fall out of the discussion. In addition, the Lakers lose in particular aspects, such as, LeBron’s aging and Anthony Davis‘ injuries.
The Clippers future is in the best of hands. West and the rest of the Clippers’ front office have already met with Leonard and kept it more of the secretive type of meetings. They haven’t leaked anything to the media, and Leonard likes it silent. He’s the quiet, secure, advanced type of player who wants everything to be decided without all the hype.
Now we play the waiting game. Kawhi Leonard will make his decision soon, and until then, we’ll have more reporters speculating and regurgitating information that has already been out there. The LA Clippers will be prepared for Leonard and if he doesn’t sign with them, they’ll be prepared.