Throughout the off-season, the LA Clippers’ front office prioritized new contracts for several of their free agents. Each of these players makes significant contributions on both ends of the floor. Surrounding franchise stars Kawhi Leonard and Paul George with the best talent possible is vital in creating a deep postseason run.
In today’s game, having depth at the wing position is extremely important for title-contending teams. By utilizing the small-ball lineup, head coach Tyronn Lue forces the opposing big men to guard the perimeter, leading to easier shots at the rim. This strategy is made possible by having players who can shoot the ball efficiently and play exceptional defense.
Furthermore, a trade target the LA Clippers should consider is Phoenix Suns forward Jae Crowder. As Crowder does not plan to participate in training camp, the Suns front office is searching for a trade partner. While the Clippers are already stacked at the wing position, adding Crowder will only benefit the team in the long run.
The Phoenix Suns and Jae Crowder have mutually agreed that the veteran forward will not participate in training camp as the sides work on a trade, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) September 25, 2022
Not only does Crowder bring veteran experience, but he also adds high-end three-point shooting and a solid defensive mindset. Crowder is the perfect fit for Lue’s scheme, as the Clippers will play small-ball in the minutes Ivica Zubac is off the floor.
The LA Clippers would not have to trade much to acquire the Suns forward. With Crowder not participating in training camp, the Clippers can take advantage of a good amount of leverage. A trade package between the two teams would likely consist of late draft picks and an expiring contract.
Trading for Jae Crowder would be the final piece to the LA Clippers’ championship puzzle.
With the number of injuries the LA Clippers have faced in the past, adding a reliable wing in Jae Crowder would be huge in competing for a top three seed. Especially on the defensive end, his footwork, IQ, and instincts are exactly what the Clippers need. Pairing Crowder next to Robert Covington would be a nightmare for opposing teams.
Moreover, Crowder’s impact on both ends of the floor was one of the reasons why the Suns finished as the first seed in the Western Conference. Crowder averaged 2.2 deflections on the defensive end while contesting 6.1 shots per game. On the flip side, Crowder shot 36.2 percent on catch & shoot threes (4.6 attempts). This adds to how valuable Crowder can be on a title-contending roster.
In addition, Crowder’s role in Lue’s rotation would be pretty straightforward. He would be expected to come off the bench and provide a spark when needed. Lue will also be load-managing the minutes of Leonard and George, which may lead to an increase in opportunity for players off the bench.
As the regular season begins, the LA Clippers have the most stacked roster in the NBA. If a trade for Crowder were to occur, there should be no reason why Lue and the Clippers are not in the mix for the number one seed in the Western Conference.