3 remaining free agents that would dominate for the LA Clippers

Although the free agent market is beginning to slow down, there are several players the LA Clippers should look into. It certainly would not hurt to add more wings and possibly a big to help a potential small-ball lineup.

Furthermore, many of the players still available could fit very well with the coaching style of Tyronn Lue. These guys can shoot the three-ball, defend at a high level, and make plays that ultimately help their squad win.

What should also be noted is that the Clippers have only made two free agency moves thus far, resigning Russell Westbrook and Mason Plumlee. Despite nothing being set in stone, this could mean that more additions are on the way as LA has a challenging year ahead of them.

That said, here are three free agents that would shine for the LA Clippers.

3. Will Barton

Will Barton is a player the LA Clippers could snag for a relatively low deal. This is crucial because the front office doesn’t have much cap space to work with, especially if they are pushing to trade for James Harden.

Barton has the three-point shooting, defense, and veteran experience that could help the Clippers significantly. Additionally, he has proven to make the right reads in traffic, which is exactly what LA needs off the bench.

In 2022, the former Memphis product averaged 14.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 3.9 assists while shooting 36.5% from a distance. This makes it clear that he needs a change of scenery as his talent and skill set remain the same.

It would be a mistake if the LA Clippers did not make a strong attempt to sign Barton.

2. Kelly Oubre Jr.

Prior to the start of free agency, Kelly Oubre Jr. should have been one of the top players on the LA Clippers’ wish list. He gives head coach Tyronn Lue precisely what he needs on both sides of the ball. Not to mention his athleticism next to Terance Mann and Kenyon Martin Jr. would be an absolute sight to see.

Furthermore, he would also be given the opportunity to learn from the best two-way duo in the game. This could play a pivotal role in his future as he has the talent and potential to become an all-star in the NBA. Signing to the LA Clippers is the best situation for Oubre Jr. at this point in his career.

Moreover, statistically, Oubre Jr. is coming off the best season of his career. Sure, he only showed up for 48 games. But within that time frame, the former 15th overall pick averaged a solid 20.3 points and 5.2 boards on a field goal percentage of 43.1. There should be no doubt that he could help the Clippers significantly in their pursuit of winning a championship. In addition, he has a level of experience that lines up perfectly with the Clippers’ current roster.

However, playing slightly over half the regular season is not appealing, especially for teams competing to win it all. This may come in the way of Oubre Jr. signing a long-term deal. LA’s front office could use this to their advantage and sign him to a one-year ‘prove-it’ deal. If all goes well, LA may consider resigning him next offseason.

1. Christian Wood

Throughout the trade deadline in February, it was reported that the LA Clippers were interested in making a move for Christian Wood. This was expected as the roster lacked a backup center, and Wood’s skillset makes the Clippers even better. Not only can he space the floor, but he is a great rebounder and solid rim protector.

That said, Wood’s most recent season was not his best, as he averaged 16.6 points and 7.3 rebounds in only 67 games. This could be the reason why the LA Clippers may look to sign him to a smaller deal. On the flip side, an extension could be in the works if Wood proves himself on a championship team.

In fact, one of the reasons that Wood’s numbers took a drop is because of his situation with the Mavericks. Dallas’ coaching staff did not allow Wood to play his style of basketball, which essentially hurt his value. It also doesn’t help that the Mavericks finished with one of the worst records in the Western Conference.

Conversely, Wood does bring a bit of health concern to an already injury-prone LA Clippers roster. Furthermore, over the last four seasons, the undrafted star has suited up for 238 games out of a possible 328. This could be the main factor regarding the amount of money Wood brings in this off-season.

That said, the LA Clippers should take the risk of signing Wood, primarily because of his offensive upside. He is also one of the few big men who would thrive in a small-ball lineup.