This ESPN trade proposal for VanVleet tarnishes the Clippers’ title hopes

The trade deadline will have several suitors available as the LA Clippers continue their pursuit of a modern-day point guard. While most of the roster will remain put, it is clear which players could be on the move. The front office may package these pieces, with draft picks, to acquire a solidified all-star. The adds to how the current rotation is one elite talent away from running away with a top seed in the Western Conference.

That said, reports have been hovering around the LA Clippers as they have shown interest in the former all-star reserve, Fred VanVleet. This has been a rumor for quite some time, as VanVleet possesses some of the tools necessary to help guide the Clippers to a deep postseason run. Additionally, VanVleet may be seen as the ‘true’ point guard the Clippers have been pursuing since the 2019 off-season.

In addition, franchise superstar Kawhi Leonard won a championship with VanVleet during his time with the Raptors. Making a move on a player of VanVleet’s level would make sense for various reasons, but it all comes down to what Toronto will ask for in return.

The Raptors may be heading into a deep rebuild, which may give the Clippers leverage in acquiring VanVleet. On the flip side, the LA Clippers must dig into their depth to match the contracts.

Furthermore, ESPN recently proposed a trade that would send VanVleet to LA in a blockbuster deal. This trade could be considered an excellent deal for the Clippers, but from a long-term perspective, it will do more harm than good.