As the 2023-24 NBA season is slowly approaching, the LA Clippers must keep their eyes out on players who could end up on the trade block. Outside of the center position, head coach Tyronn Lue could always use an upgrade to make the roster even better than it already is.
Moreover, with Intuit Dome opening up for the 2024-25 season, Kawhi Leonard and Paul George will likely receive a long-term extension. This is to remain in championship contention and hold a status as one of the top free-agent destinations in the NBA.
That said, here are three players the LA Clippers could look to make a move for at the 2024 trade deadline.
3. Buddy Hield
Buddy Hield would be a phenomenal addition to the LA Clippers. There is a chance he could average close to 20 points with his shooting and how Tyronn Lue orchestrates the offense. Not to mention his contract expires after the 2023-24 season. This gives the front office leverage when building a proposal for the Indiana Pacers.
Furthermore, Hield has been one of the best shooters in the league for quite some time. He is as consistent as they come, and his passing is highly underrated. However, his most prominent attribute is his minor injury history. This is beneficial for a team like the Clippers, who are prone to health concerns.
Inserting an all-star talent like Hield into the Clippers’ offense would make LA unstoppable. Especially next to players like Kawhi Leonard, Paul George, and Russell Westbrook, the former Oklahoma product would make a living off wide-open three-pointers.
2. Markelle Fultz
Markelle Fultz’s scoring, playmaking, and defense seem parallel to what the LA Clippers need to work on. Primarily off the bench, his two-way mentality would ultimately put LA in a position to win more games. Additionally, Fultz has developed a decent three-point shot, backing up why he would be even more of a threat for Tyronn Lue and the rest of the squad.
Moreover, Fultz recently had the best season of his six-year career. On top of averaging 14.0 points on 51.4% shooting, the former Washington star posted 5.7 assists and 3.9 rebounds. This is a significant improvement from where he was in his rookie season, which capitalizes on his work ethic and dedication to his craft.
What must be noted is where the Orlando Magic are headed in terms of their rebuild. Though Fultz may only be 25, the Magic may choose to part ways due to how many point guards they currently have. With Jalen Suggs, Cole Anthony, and Anthony Black in the rotation, Fultz will have a limited role off the bench.
On that note, LA could offer a veteran like Marcus Morris Sr. and a second-round pick to acquire the 2017 first-overall draft choice. This makes sense for both parties, as Fultz is on an expiring contract. In addition, Orlando receives a return rather than letting him walk in the 2024 off-season.
Conversely, Morris Sr. would thrive with the Magic. Although his primary duty would be to mentor guys like Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, Morris Sr. would find himself with a limitless role off the bench. This is the ideal scenario for him at this stage in his career.
1. DeMar DeRozan
Before DeMar DeRozan signed with Chicago, it was rumored that he had interest in suiting up for the LA Clippers. This would have been a lethal trio, as DeRozan is among the best scorers in the NBA. However, what tends to get overlooked is his improved three-point jumper.
Furthermore, dating back to DeRozan’s time with the Spurs, he was nothing but a liability from beyond the arc. In fact, during his first season in San Antonio, the former USC product shot 15.6% from three. This meant you could leave him wide open, and he would still miss.
As time passed, these numbers did not translate with the Chicago Bulls. In 2021-22, DeRozan managed to shoot 35.2% from a distance in 77 games. He followed that up with a three-point percentage of 32.4 in 2022-23. Although the efficiencies dropped by a noticeable amount, DeRozan has proven that he can make you pay if you give him space.
Moreover, the LA Clippers do not have anything to worry about when it comes to DeRozan’s offensive package. He can easily score at all three levels and is one of the best finishers in the NBA. Not to mention he is long and athletic, which makes it easy for him to guard the perimeter.
In regards to a trade package, the LA Clippers’ front office will likely give Chicago Norman Powell, Robert Covington, and a second-round pick. This seems quite fair, as DeRozan will be a free agent next off-season. If LA does not manage to re-sign him, this trade will result in a five-month trial.