While the LA Clippers were tracking down their perfect point guard, a backup center was also needed. The talents of Ivica Zubac were great, but they weren’t enough to sustain all 48 minutes of regulation. The trade deadline was the perfect opportunity to eliminate this issue.
Moreover, the LA Clippers found an elite backup center through a trade with the Charlotte Hornets. Mason Plumlee is precisely what the LA Clippers need, as he is having the best year of his veteran career while playing with no injury concerns.
BREAKING: Mason Plumlee traded to Clippers for Reggie Jackson, via @wojespn pic.twitter.com/wj6scax4Se
— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) February 9, 2023
That said, Plumlee is not only a phenomenal glass cleaner but one of the best passing big men in the league. This can help the offense in many ways, especially in the postseason when the team’s depth comes to light.
What did the LA Clippers trade away for Mason Plumlee?
Although adding Mason Plumlee may be great, the cost is of bigger concern for the LA Clippers. However, they were able to swap Reggie Jackson, one of the players on their trade block, for Plumlee’s offensive capabilities.
So far this season, Plumlee is averaging 12.2 points, 9.7 rebounds, and 3.7 assists while shooting 66.9% from the field in only 28.5 minutes per night. Additionally, Plumlee has yet to miss a contest, playing every one of Charlotte’s 56 games. This is huge for LA, as injuries have been a bug all year.
Despite Plumlee being on a team-friendly deal, he is in the last year of his contract. This allows him to prove himself on a championship squad to possibly earn a more significant payroll when the off-season comes around.