The LA Clippers’ hunt for bench improvement may lead them to the Los Angeles Lakers, who have numerous talents on the trade block. This could lure executive Lawrence Frank in, especially if the price matches what he is trade away.
Furthermore, as uncommon as it is to trade with a divisional rival, the front office has done so in the past, and it landed them a franchise center.
Star center Ivica Zubac joined the Clippers during a culture shift, waited his turn, and is now considered untouchable by head coach Tyronn Lue. The trade for the Croatian star is regarded as one of the best in franchise history, as LA was desperate for a legitimate center.
Moreover, during the 2025 deadline, the Clippers could call the Lakers for the former Gonzaga Bulldog, Rui Hachimura.
Hachimura is believed to be available for trade, as the Lakers may be chasing another expensive superstar.
Nonetheless, the Clippers have an ideal proposal for the Lakers that could give them financial freedom. Conversely, Lue would be given a top-tier producer off the bench.
The LA Clippers would gain numerous benefits by trading with the Lakers for Rui Hachimura.
Rui Hachimura, a former ninth-overall pick, is an epitome of what the LA Clippers need off the bench. He can score, defend, and win games as a sixth man for Tyronn Lue. Additionally, he will take part in the team's limited playoff rotation.
As most players are traded due to performance or fit, Hachimura could be shipped because of his salary. With an additional year and a half left on his deal, the Lakers may use his contract as a bridge to land their next star talent.
On July 6th, 2023, the former Washington Wizard signed a three-year, $51 million deal with the Lakers' front office.
This season, Hachimura has averaged 12.2 points and 5.3 rebounds in 37 games for the Lakers. He is shooting 48.7% from the field and 41.0% from three, which will intrigue Lawrence Frank and his staff.
Via trade, the Clippers will give up P.J. Tucker, Mo Bamba, Bones Hyland, and a future second-round pick for Hachimura’s two-way excellence.
This offer gives the Lakers flexibility in searching for other trades.
That said, the Clippers’ main target ahead of February 6th should be Hachimura. He is outstanding on the court, relentless in winning, and someone who would aid Lue as the sixth man.