Serge Ibaka: 3 reasons the Clippers need the center back

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On Friday, it was announced that LA Clippers center Serge Ibaka underwent season-ending back surgery.

His back cost him many missed games this season, and ended up pulling the plug on his 2020-2021 campaign early.

He’s a guy that the Clippers absolutely need to have back next season. There are three reasons in particular as to why they need him to pick up his player option this offseason.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – MAY 04: Serge Ibaka #9 of the LA Clippers stretches before the game against the Toronto Raptors at Staples Center on May 04, 2021 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Meg Oliphant/Getty Images) /

No. 1 reason the LA Clippers need to re-sign Serge Ibaka: He’s a cost-effective option

Serge Ibaka is a 12-year vet with Championship experience. Those don’t grow on trees.

They also usually are rather expensive. Ibaka cost under $9.5 million this year, and will cost under $10 million next year too if he picks up his option. (Nobody will offer him more than that for next year since he’s coming off of an injury, just FYI.)

And yes, Ibaka dealt with back injuries for a lot of games this year. It’s also true, though, that his presence as that type of leader is still very valuable for under $10 million.

He’s a three-time All-Defensive Team selection who can still start for the Clippers and also provide leadership from his 12 years of experience playing in this league.

But the two-time NBA block champion provides more than just what he brings as a leader.

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