The LA Clippers are facing a franchise-altering campaign. Kawhi Leonard and Paul George can both opt out of their contract next summer and become free agents. The duo joining forces made the Clippers title contenders, but three playoff series wins in four years has been a disappointment, especially with the amount of games the two superstars have missed.
Does LA extend their two stars, despite all the headaches? James Harden wants tojoin the Clippers, and the franchise has the assets to make it happen. It would be the all-in move that proves the Clippers believe they can contend for the championship. How would the three superstars fit? It is enough to make LA a serious title contender? Those would be questions to sort out.
The LA Clippers want to be competitive as they open their new arena next season. It may take going all-in to keep Kawhi and PG happy. The Clippers have two first-round picks and two swaps to trade if they decide to make a move, but can they find a trade that makes them a title contender?
5. Clippers go all-in on Trae Young
Young came up in trade rumors this summer, and the Clippers desperately need a point guard. Could LA solve their biggest flaw and get a two-time All-Star in the process? Atlanta wants to contend and is not selling low on Ice Trae.
The Hawks would want more, but could get three role players, two first-round picks, and two swaps if they can convince the Clippers front office to make their top offer. The trade would give Atlanta depth and the assets to further upgrade their roster in a subsequent deal.
Can Trae Young win in the playoffs? He led the Hawks to the conference finals in 2021, but they have been bounced in the first round for two straight years.
Postseason success is the Clippers’ goal, which makes this trade a massive gamble. Young would give LA an elite offense, but their defense could quickly become problematic. Kawhi and PG were elite perimeter defenders, but has age and injury caught up to them? It may be too risky for the Clippers’ brain trust.
Trae Young is not the only All-Star in the rumor mill, and the LA Clippers might even be willing to offer a significant package to get James Harden out of Philly.