Following executive Lawrence Frank's words, the LA Clippers’ main goal at the deadline was to ship away the contract of veteran forward P.J. Tucker while enhancing the front and back end of the bench.
Furthermore, the Clippers kept their word and traded Tucker to the Utah Jazz. Along with Tucker is the backup center, Mo Bamba, a second-round pick, and cash considerations.
The Los Angeles Clippers are trading PJ Tucker, Mo Bamba, a future second-round pick and cash to the Utah Jazz for Drew Eubanks and Patty Mills, sources tell me and @BobbyMarks42. pic.twitter.com/YOy5kIUd6z
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) February 1, 2025
In return, Frank did his best by securing bench production in veterans Patty Mills and Drew Eubanks.
That said, four instant reactions to the Clippers-Jazz trade are as follows.
4. The LA Clippers are officially below the luxury tax
Leading up to the trade deadline, the LA Clippers’ front office needed to find a way to dodge the luxury tax. This was a concern all season, and if the Clippers wanted flexibility, they had to move players around.
Moreover, trading Tucker was the simplest way to remain under the tax. By inserting Mo Bamba, the front office has far more wiggle room than they initially did.
Additionally, Tucker was taking up a roster spot and not partaking in team activities while bringing home a massive check. If he had not been moved, the front office would be forced to for their financial freedom.
3. The LA Clippers acquired Patty Mills on a prove-it contract
Though Patty Mills is 36 years old and way past his prime, the LA Clippers will likely give him a chance off the bench. He is still a great three-point shooter and can provide depth behind the starting guards.
In addition, Mills has championship experience and is a former teammate of the 2018 MVP, James Harden.
Assuming Mills plays well, Lawrence Frank could offer him a multi-year deal.
If he yields left, there is no worry within the front office. Mills is on an expiring contract and will enter free agency this summer.
2. The Clippers find help behind Ivica Zubac
As a major priority for the LA Clippers was to trade Mo Bamba, they brought in a much more experienced and talented big man.
In his seventh season, Drew Eubanks is averaging 5.8 points and 4.5 rebounds, shooting 60.7% from the field.
Whether he is the long-term answer is to be decided.
Eubanks’ salary next season is also non-guaranteed. This is something to keep in mind for the future.
1. Several options in the buy-out market
As finances become more manageable, the LA Clippers will be the most active team in the buy-out market.
Originally, this was not possible. But now that the contracts of P.J. Tucker and Mo Bamba have vanished, the front office can negotiate with teams in both conferences.
There are several options, such as guards D’Angelo Russell, Ben Simmons, and Lonzo Ball, who could add to what head coach Tyronn Lue is currently scheming.