Although it’s unlikely that Myles Turner is currently on the radar of the LA Clippers, the versatile big man should be.
Earlier today, Shams Charania of The Athletic reported that the Indiana Pacers are openly shopping Turner. In addition to the news, Charania also reported that the now middling franchise is looking to unload the hefty contract of Malcolm Brogdon as well.
Since breaking the news, Indiana’s phone lines have been ringing nonstop in connection to Brogdon. However, as of now, only the Charlotte Hornets have reportedly shown interest in snagging Turner.
Myles Turner would be perfect as an LA Clipper
Heading into the 2022-23 NBA season, the LA Clippers will have hefty expectations set upon their shoulders. While they did fail to join in on the postseason fun this past year, with a healthy Kawhi Leonard and Paul George expected to rejoin the starting lineup, along with a revamped bench that will feature Norman Powell and Robert Covington, LA has been viewed amongst the upper echelon of the Western Conference. In fact, according to the betting market, only the Golden State Warriors have better NBA Finals odds in comparison to their Western contemporaries.
Despite the recognition, LA should be in the market to bring in Turner. Although they are currently entangled in cap space hell, Turner’s $17.5 million dollar contract is manageable. Also, in terms of his actual game, Turner would afford LA endless versatile lineups.
Seldom known for his ability to dominate a game on the offensive end, Turner has consistently put up stellar numbers on that end of the court. This past season, Turner averaged a respectable 12.9 points per game. For his career, the newly turned 26-year-old has poured in 12.7 points a night.
Turner’s highly efficient game, finishing the season by shooting 50.9% from the field, was accentuated by his 3-point shooting prowesses. Outside of his rookie season, Turner has connected on at least 33.3% of his attempts from behind the line.
Spacing, however, wouldn’t be Turner’s only calling card on an LA team filled with shooters. Regardless of his slender frame, Turner is seldom bullied in the lane. In addition to grabbing 7.1 boards a night, he was amongst the league’s best in terms of shot blocking, ending the year with 2.8 per game. In two of the past four seasons actually, Turner has led the entire association in that department.
With a fully fit roster heading into the season, LA is likely to put out a closing lineup that consists of Kawhi Leonard, Paul George, Reggie Jackson, Robert Covington, and Norman Powell. But while those aforementioned players will play more of a pace and space sort of game, they lack size on the inside, something the 6’11” Turner could serve as a panacea for.
For now, the Clippers appear more interested in the ongoing drama between the Brooklyn Nets and Kyrie Irving. As contract negotiations between them have stalled, the Clippers have emerged as one of the frontrunners to enlist his services.
Ultimately, while Irving would be the flasher and sexier name, Turner would bring far more substance to a Clippers roster with championship aspirations.