Throughout the LA Clippers’ race for a backup big man, several names from across the league have entered the conversation. There is no true center behind the rim-protecting talents of Ivica Zubac. This has harmed the Clippers all year and will continue if the front office doesn’t make a move by the trade deadline.
Furthermore, one player the LA Clippers have expressed interest in is the Mavericks’ stretch big, Christian Wood. This could be a risky option for the front office, especially considering Wood’s injury history over the years.
The Clippers are monitoring Christian Wood and D’Angelo Russell, per @TheSteinLine
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) February 4, 2023
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So far this season, Wood is averaging 18.1 points per game, 8.4 rebounds, and 1.7 assists while shooting 53.0% from the field and 37.7% from three in 28.8 minutes per game. These are phenomenal numbers as Dallas is making their push to a top seed.
What may be more surprising about Wood is that he has played in 43 out of Dallas’ 55 games. This backs up how healthy he has been and why he may be the ideal option for the LA Clippers.
Is Christian Wood’s game enough to help the LA Clippers attain a high seed in the West?
Right now, Christian Wood would eliminate the most significant need for the Clippers, a competent big man next to Ivica Zubac. In particular, head coach Tyronn Lue and the coaching staff are missing a rebounding presence, and Wood does just that.
However, the biggest concern with Wood is his health. Injuries have not favored the LA Clippers this season. It would not be ideal to make a trade for an injury prone star receiving nearly 15 million per year.
Though his availability may raise questions, trading for Wood is a risk worth taking. He can stretch the floor, crash the glass, and protect the rim when needed. This is the perfect addition to Lue’s game plan, making the small-ball lineups more effective against specific teams.
Ultimately, this trade comes down to what the LA Clippers will have to give up in return for Wood. If the price is close to late draft picks and a player on the trade block, the front office should hit accept with no hesitation. In fact, the Clippers should go all in on Wood, as he is relatively young and provides the team with enough to thrive in the postseason.