It’s an understatement to say the LA Clippers have been hungry for someone who can really rebound the ball. Yes, as crazy as it sounds, the frontcourt is talented in various ways on both ends of the floor, but cleaning the glass will likely be their biggest struggle. With Brook Lopez and Rui Hachimura likely leading the way, there should be no surprises when errors begin to present themselves.
One of the best candidates on the open market, who could’ve easily worked his way up to the backup PF/C role and solved LA’s rebounding problem, was Julian Reese. Unfortunately for the Clippers, the New Orleans Pelicans snagged Reese on a two-way contract just ahead of training camp.
Reese, who played his rookie season with the Washington Wizards, became a free agent after being waived by the Denver Nuggets following the blockbuster Peyton Watson trade that involved numerous teams.
The LA Clippers could’ve really used Julian Reese on their roster
Until Yanic Konan Niederhauser returns, the LA Clippers will have almost no rebounding in the frontcourt. Brook Lopez and Rui Hachimura have already proven that one of their biggest weaknesses is grabbing boards, and beyond them, there’s Isaiah Jackson, and, well, that’s it. The Clippers don’t even have an established backup power forward.
That said, signing Julian Reese to a two-way contract would’ve helped the team’s biggest flaw tremendously.
After going undrafted, the Washington Wizards finally called Reese’s number, and he didn’t disappoint. In 13 games, the Maryland product posted 11.8 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 1.8 assists, shooting 52.9% from the field.
Additionally, Reese’s game log is scary good. Of the contests he suited up for last season, in four of them he logged 15 or more rebounds, which includes a 20-board night versus the Utah Jazz.
The cherry on top? Reese turned 23 years old. This only adds to how he's a perfect fit for what the Clippers need.
Reese isn’t perfect. He’s undersized and has turnover issues, which is probably why the Wizards moved on, but he’s still a player the Clippers would’ve benefited from rostering.
With Reese on the New Orleans Pelicans and officially off the table, the Clippers are hoping one of their current two-way players, like Jamarion Sharp or Nick Martinelli, impresses off the glass during training camp.
If not, it’s safe to say the Clippers are going to be in trouble once the regular season begins.
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