Reasons to keep Lou Williams
The Lou Williams faithful could come up with countless reasons as to why the combo-guard shouldn’t be moved, but here are just a few.
Integral to the identity of LA Clippers basketball
As previously mentioned, Williams is largely responsible for the current identity of the LA Clippers. He, Patrick Beverley, and Montrezl Harrell instilled a “we before me” mentality. Everyone has been counted out at some point in their life and they play to their fullest ability every game.
Williams has had back-to-back career seasons, and because of his efforts in a transition period for the team, there’s a chance he could have his jersey retired by the Clippers when it’s all said and done.
Trading Blake Griffin in January 2018 made the Clippers look untrustworthy and upset thousands of fans. Trading Williams would have a similar outcome, though there probably wouldn’t be as extreme of a reaction.
Loyalty
When Williams was traded twice from January to June 2017, he considered retiring from professional basketball. He felt unwanted — like nothing more than a movable contract. He had a change of heart though and decided to give his all to the Clippers.
Halfway into his first season in LA, Williams signed a very team-friendly contract extension, agreeing to take just $8 million annually so the team could pursue bigger targets.
Williams has given up so much for the Clippers, and many think if they have a single ounce of decency, his loyalty would be reciprocated.
Clutch factor
On the court, Williams has been nothing short of exceptional in the clutch. Something about the bright lights and high pressure gets him to play his best.
In December 2017, he secured a win over the Washington Wizards with a difficult contested 3-pointer:
Just under a year later, Williams hit this insanely difficult bucket after swimming past three Milwaukee Bucks defenders:
A few months later, Williams sent the Brooklyn Nets packing after nailing a ridiculous 30-foot jumper:
And that’s just three of his many clutch shots. Even this season, as the third scoring option, Williams has contributed vital shots to keep the LA Clippers in their games.
Losing this clutch factor could possibly be the worst downside to trading him.