Through the trade deadline and days after, executive Lawrence Frank tweaked the LA Clippers’ roster to one suited for the postseason. They traded several players and inserted more capable talents that will stand tall when adversity arises.
Conversely, some of these players will receive minutes from head coach Tyronn Lue to prove their contributions are worthy enough of a roster spot next season. If not, Frank must gravitate toward the trade machine and center calls around those who failed their responsibilities.
Some of the players rostered before the deadline will also be observed during the rest of the season and the playoffs.
The fan base has been patient for another deep playoff run, and if the Clippers do not have the right talents to fulfill their aspirations, then Frank will have to make the offseason transactions deemed mandatory.
3. Drew Eubanks
As a big man the LA Clippers kept past the deadline, Drew Eubanks is competing for a spot in Tyronn Lue’s 2026-27 rotation. Though he brings great energy and experience, the ultimate test will come in the postseason.
Furthermore, the front office expects Ebuanks to be the backup center moving forward. He played well with the Utah Jazz, averaging 5.8 points and 4.5 boards, and has been solid as a rock in three contests with the Clippers.
Once Eubanks develops the non-verbal cues from former MVP James Harden, his offensive contributions will become simple. He will be asked to set screens, finish at the rim, and kick the ball out efficiently if trapped in the paint.
The only way the Clippers branch out for a trade is if Eubanks becomes a liability, especially in the playoffs.
2. Ben Simmons
As good as his resume looks, Ben Simmons is starting from ground zero with the LA Clippers. Does he have an advantage based on his experience? Yes, but the three-time all-star is on a minimum contract, fighting for a legitimate deal at age 28.
Simmons was a solid role player for the Brooklyn Nets this season, but he will need to play with confidence, stay healthy, and efficiently impact both ends of Tyronn Lue’s game plan to earn a multi-year contract in LA.
Though Simmons will likely not return to his prime, the Clippers will offer him an agreement beyond the veteran minimum if he performs as hoped for.
1. Amir Coffey
As Amir Coffey is in the last year of his $11 million contract for the LA Clippers, he is playing the best basketball of his young career from an offensive perspective.
Conversely, Coffey is not as skilled on the defensive end. Players constantly isolate him because he is slow on his feet and does not react fast enough, which contradicts the identity LA has pushed for.
This must change in the postseason, as Lue will be playing Coffey no matter the matchup. If opponents pick on him as a mismatch, the Clippers will likely not have him stick around for the future.