Now that the LA Clippers are through with half of the regular season, it is evident a change needs to occur. Head coach Tyronn Lue and his squad were expected to be in a tier of their own, competing for a championship. While that may not be the case, the trade deadline is a golden opportunity to correct any issues.
Currently, the front office has several areas to focus on. From acquiring a true point guard to a competent big man, buying low is the best way to go. Especially considering the cap room the Clippers have to work with, quality role players will elevate the team’s regular season.
As the trade deadline is just a few weeks away, several reports are being released on the players available, asking price, and leverage. The Clippers can utilize these factors, plus their needs, to make a trade that will benefit the team long-term.
With the amount of talent the Clippers possess, the minimum for the team’s success should be a final appearance. As of right now, Lue and his squad are far away from that threshold. However, building more vital pieces around the foundation will be the key to winning it all.
3. Isaiah Hartenstein
The best way to kick off the trade deadline is for the LA Clippers to acquire a familiar face in Isaiah Hartenstein. His role with the New York Knicks has been declining over the last few weeks, making it obvious that he will be available for trade when the time comes.
In his time with the Clippers, Hartenstein was a primary reason why the franchise was able to notch their first-ever Western Conference Finals appearance. His impact is very similar to the play of Ivica Zubac, giving Lue more talent to work with.
During his only season with LA, Hartenstein averaged 8.3 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 2.4 assists in only 17.9 minutes. Additionally, the seven-foot big had a total +/- of +169 through 68 games played. This capitalizes on his impact and ability to shift the momentum of a ball game.
Outside of his dominant two-way efforts, Hartenstein is already familiar with the system. Lue knows the correct way to utilize his abilities, adding to why his fit would be perfect for the LA Clippers. With the amount of leverage in his situation with New York, it would not cost more than a second-round pick to secure this trade.
2. Naz Reid
Since game one of the regular season, it was clear the LA Clippers could use a backup center like Naz Reid. Once the starting big man, Ivica Zubac, leaves the floor, the play on both sides of the ball seems stagnant. With no presence in the paint, it is hard for the Clippers to fight for victory.
That said, Reid’s name has constantly been mentioned through the trade market. Following his rookie season in 2019, he has proven to be a high-quality stretch big man. His play-style, impact, and fit fall directly into Lue’s postseason plans.
So far this year, Reid is posting 10.4 points and 4.7 boards while shooting 55.6% from the field and 37.5% from three. Though his rebound averages may be low, he is only stepping on the court 17.6 minutes per game. This shows how valuable he can be despite a minimal role.
Adding a talent like Reid on the bench unit with John Wall would be a scary sight for opposing teams. Driving and kicking the ball out may be the best way to compete on the offensive end. Regarding the team’s defense, Reid is contesting 5.2 shots per game with limited opportunities. It is inevitable that he will prosper with the Clippers as he would see the biggest role through his young career.
In return, the LA Clippers would likely have to give up one of their players on the trade block and a second-round pick. This is a great deal for both teams as the two parties are addressing their problems before it’s too late.
1. Shake Milton
Following the ‘Lob City’ era, the LA Clippers have been searching for a point guard like Shake Milton. The front office isn’t necessarily looking for one that can run the floor, but more so a guard that qualifies into the championship criteria. Milton is the team’s best suitor.
After landing the superstar talents of Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, the franchise has experimented with skills like Rajon Rondo, Reggie Jackson, and John Wall. While these point guards may contribute in their ways, the Clippers are missing a floor general whom the coaching staff can consistently rely on.
Moreover, Philadelphia has the answer LA is looking for. Milton would be the perfect addition to the Clippers’ blueprint as his current role with the 76ers is very limited. Each time his number is called, he delivers, showing that an opportunity is all he needs.
Milton’s role in Philadelphia has been this way since entering the league, adding to why it may be time for a change. Assuming the Clippers make the trade, Milton brings a level of offense Lue’s game-plan is quietly missing. In addition, his play-making abilities are hidden through his smaller role.
Thirty-five games into this season, Milton is averaging 10.4 points, 3.4 assists, and 3.4 rebounds while shooting 50.9% from the field and 37.0% from three. He is dropping these numbers through just 24.0 minutes per game.
On the other hand, the trade package to the 76ers would include one of the Clippers’ point guards, along with a late draft pick. This is an excellent agreement for LA as they would receive the answer to all of their problems.