Here are three wings the LA Clippers can look at in the 2020 NBA Draft.
With the NBA season set to start on December 22, fans can expect a whirlwind of an offseason. This all starts on November 18 with the NBA Draft. The LA Clippers currently only own the 57th pick in the draft, so getting helpful talent seems unlikely.
This leaves them the option of either trading up or buying picks from other teams who might like to get some extra cash. While a lot of players in the second round usually aren’t “help now” type of players, the Clips could get some youth on their roster to play spot minutes this season while mainly developing behind the scenes.
With holes at the center and point guard spot likely being addressed via free agency or trades, the team could take some fliers on young wings to eventually back up Kawhi Leonard and Paul George. Here are three players that could fill that role in the second round.
LA Clippers NBA Draft Prospect #1 – Jaden McDaniels (Washington)
This might be a stretch for the LA Clippers given that McDaniels is expected to go in the late first round. If he drops though, the Clips should be aggressive and move up to try and get him.
McDaniels spent just one year at Washington where he put up 13 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists. He is a great shooter and has a build in the vein of Kevin Durant and Brandon Ingram. Standing 6’10” with a 6’11.5″ wingspan, he has amazing length for a wing.
It’s the lack of size that could potentially be an issue. McDaniels weighs in at just 200lbs and in the NBA that could spell trouble. Sure, Ingram and Durant have made it work for them but both were more talented prospects and there’s no guarantee that McDaniels can pack on the size necessary.
If he can add a little weight though, he can easily develop into a great three-and-D type of player. At just 19 years old, he has the time to improve and bulk up. Getting on a contender like the Clippers would allow him time to do so while not playing a huge role for the team. Perhaps some time with the Agua Caliente Clippers would benefit him with call ups on nights where PG or Kawhi are due for rest.