With no one we know of on the trade market being a marked improvement, one should remember the LA Clippers don’t need to make a trade for the sake of it.
I know this isn’t the fun thing to hear. The NBA trade deadline is one of the most exciting times of the season with fans of every team salivating at how their team can improve on their current roster or set themselves up for future success. I won’t lie, I love it too and embrace the chaos. Still, for a team with championship aspirations like the LA Clippers, making a trade just for the sake of it isn’t a wise move.
It’s not like Maurice Harkless has been bad, right? Sure, he’s a little timid when it comes to shooting the three-ball but when he does, he’s connecting on 35.3% of his attempts. Besides, he’s at best the fourth or fifth offensive option when on the court so any scoring out of him is just found money. His defense doesn’t need any more praise then it’s already gotten this season. Still, he’s the one guy with a salary that fits into most trade scenarios.
Does that mean we have to flip him? Not at all.
After Robert Covington was dealt last night, is there anyone out there that is a huge improvement over Harkless? Marcus Morris is on the offensive end and isn’t a huge dropoff on the defensive side but his locker room presence is iffy and I don’t see how messing with the team’s chemistry and dynamic is worth the small upgrade on the court.
Then there’s Andre Iguodala. He brings defense and a championship pedigree but he’s also 36 years old and has not played a game of professional basketball since last June. The idea of Iggy is enticing but how do you know what you are actually getting? On top of that, the Clips would likely have to throw in a first round pick, their last true asset.
Don’t think a wing is what we need? Maybe you are looking at the rumored Andre Drummond or Steven Adams deals that have been mentioned. Both players would provide an upgrade at the center but make a ton of money which will limit the Clippers next year. Their large contracts mean multiple players have to go out, likely including one of Montrezl Harrell or Ivica Zubac. Again, I’m not sure how worth it that might be.
The Clippers are good as constructed. They started a franchise-best 35-15 through 50 games despite only having their full roster healthy for three games. Call me crazy but that doesn’t scream “We need to make a trade!”
If the Clippers pull something off in the next 24 hours, I’ll talk myself into it. This front office’s track record has given me no reason to doubt what they do. Still, if they stand pat and keep the roster as constructed I get it. This team is good.