While not the most notable acquirement by the LA Clippers this season, Moe Harkless looks to have a large role on the team this season.
After spending four seasons with the Portland Trail Blazers, Maurice Harkless joins the LA Clippers as almost an afterthought as part of the four-team trade that sent Jimmy Butler to the Miami Heat.
With so much focus on Butler, Harkless’ acquisition went unnoticed. To further push him away from the spotlight, the Clippers added not one, but two All-Stars in Paul George and Kawhi Leonard. With the addition of these two, Harkless will be resigned to a role on the bench.
That’s not a bad thing though. Harkless will join one of the most potent second units in the league, pairing with Montrezl Harrell and Lou Williams.
As part of that unit, he can help wreak havoc while George and Leonard rest. Harkless also brings with him playoff experience from Portland over the last four seasons. He may be only 26 years old, but the former 15th overall pick has a lot of experience already.
Harkless offers little on the offensive end (which we will get into), but should be an effective defender. While he won’t be defending at the same level as Leonard and George (honestly, who does?), offensive players won’t be getting an easy time when one of those two goes to the bench to be replaced by Moe.
Now, let’s take a look at Harkless’ defense and what impact he’ll bring to the bench unit.