LA Clippers: 2 advantages, 1 disadvantage for a DeAndre Jordan trade
By Evan Desai
DeAndre Jordan was a walking highlight reel on the ‘Lob City’ LA Clippers.
The All-Star Clipper had a remarkable ten year run with LA, averaging 9.4 points per game, 10.7 rebounds per game, and 1.6 blocks per game.
Ian Begley, who covers both the New York Knicks and Brooklyn Nets for SNY, has some new insider information about the three-time All-NBA selection:
Report: Teams have had trade talks with the Nets involving DeAndre Jordan, via @IanBegley pic.twitter.com/JRk2n7CTN5
— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) July 28, 2021
Should the Clippers reunite with Jordan? There are two sides to the conversation. Starting with an advantage, I’m going to analyze some pros and cons to the idea:
One advantage for the LA Clippers to trade for DeAndre Jordan: Depth at center
The LA Clippers only have two centers signed through next year for sure, so of course they need to look at other options like DeAndre Jordan this offseason.
Daniel Oturu and Ivica Zubac are signed up for next year, but Serge Ibaka has a player option and DeMarcus Cousins is already a free agent.
Center depth is tricky for the Clippers. On one hand, they like to play small ball. On the other hand, they missed Zubac and Ibaka’s rebounding when they were out during the Western Conference Finals.
They need more big men, regardless of if they’re going to play the four or the five. They don’t have many true power forwards or centers, and that’s what Jordan is. Having Jordan is huge because he’s not even just a typical true center, but one who combines that skillset with athleticism.
He’s 33 and I get that, but he can still play quality basketball in the minutes he’s out there.