The Detroit Pistons are in the process of buying out Guard Reggie Jackson, who then intends to sign with the LA Clippers for this stretch playoff run.
The LA Clippers plan on signing Reggie Jackson once his buyout is complete with the Detroit Pistons. Jackson’s been reported as a possible buyout before All-Star break and with the March first deadline rapidly approaching the Clippers have a chance to get added depth at their guard position.
The Clippers are shoring up a need with signing Jackson who has been often injured in his time with Detroit. While missing games earlier this season, Jackson looks like he’s shaken off the rust and could help lead the Clippers second unit as their playmaker giving better space to Lou Williams and Montrezl Harrell when out on the floor together. Jackson adds another five-plus assist player to a loaded Clippers’ team.
Many people from fans to analysts seem to think the Clippers needed another facilitator, which Jackson can help the team when the ball sticks. He is someone who can help see the floor and move the ball around, provide more spacing, and do some damage in the pick and roll with either Harrell and Ivica Zubac
Jackson’s Role
Reggie Jackson has only played 14 games for the Detroit Pistons this season and while it’s a small sample size, he is averaging 5.2 assists a game and he is letting the three-ball fly at 37%, which is above league average. He is not known for being a lockdown defender but for what’s out there in the buyout market, he is one of the players that can help a team in spot minutes.
Jackson likely will not start for the team unless injuries are present but he has been the floor general since his time with Oklahoma City Thunder. The team really could use someone who sees the floor and can help dictate the offense when things get in the half-court. He will give others a chance to come off screens and handoffs that should allow for higher percentage shots. This could help Williams, Kawhi Leonard, and Paul George.
The Clippers still could use a big just as added insurance but getting a player like Jackson in this market is pretty big. Jackson will not be leaned on like he was at previous stops but if he can play to his role within the team and offense both will benefit from the signing. What it also does mean is that the other LA team does not get another quality starter to help for this year’s playoff run.
When Jackson plays he does help his team and was a big part of what the Pistons were trying to when they traded for former LA Clipper Blake Griffin. With injuries riddling the team, they never were able to realize the full picture. Now as the Pistons are moving to rebuild, the Clippers are able to pick up the pieces and not have to trade anything to get acquire Jackson’s help.
The LA Clippers will continue to monitor the buyout market. They have one roster spot left and can sign another buyout player or even give Amir Coffey a contract for the rest of the season and get him off his two-way deal.