Throughout the 2024-25 regular season, LA Clipper fans have been waiting on the front office to deal big for more talent. Though key starters like Kawhi Leonard, James Harden, and Ivica Zubac will not be traded, the team does need to increase their depth, especially through the offense.
Furthermore, the first move that must be made is a transaction regarding the veteran forward, P.J. Tucker. He must be dealt or bought out, as the front office could use the open roster spot on a player who will contribute under head coach Tyronn Lue.
Tucker is set to earn $11.5 million by the end of the season. Opposing teams will show reluctance in taking on his contract, forcing the Clippers to go against their will by including more.
Moreover, other trades that would appeal to the fanbase surround veterans Terance Mann, Nicolas Batum, Kevin Porter Jr., and Mo Bamba.
Although they do not all need to be shipped, executive Lawrence Frank does need to study what their production will look like near May. If they become unplayable, it would be wise for the front office to trade them as soon as possible.
That said, Law Murray, an insider for The Athletic, recently reported crucial news tying into the situations of Tucker and Mann.
The LA Clippers could retain Mann and search for other options regarding Tucker if a trade is not found.
Two of the LA Clippers’ veteran forwards, P.J. Tucker and Terance Mann, have been in trade rumors for weeks at hand. Some think they should move for stronger pieces, while others believe Mann deserves more minutes off the bench.
In a recent news piece from Law Murray, he stated, “Mann has always been highly valued by the Clippers’ front office. They have always resisted trading him, and they won’t give him away now…”
Clippers fans may recognize this mindset from the front office, as they have hesitated to deal Mann for other stars across the NBA.
Additionally, Murray included, “Tucker, who turns 40 in May, has played his last game in a Clippers uniform, and an asset would need to be attached to include him in any trade. If Tucker is not traded, then expect him to seek a team that would be interested on the buyout market following the deadline.”
This is the update fans desired, as the Clippers understand what the repercussions will look like if Tucker remains in LA through his expiring contract.