In a similar fashion to how Luke Kennard was brought to the LA Clippers in 2021, the front office must shop their draft capital before, or around the time, names are called on stage this summer. Opposing teams, particularly rising contenders, may have an offer that would appeal to executive Lawrence Frank, and this works perfectly because the Clippers need quality veteran depth.
NBA insider Jake Fischer of ‘The Stein Line’ reported around noon on Thursday that a team who may look to acquire a post-lottery first-round pick is the Sacramento Kings. This essentially means a selection held within the range of picks 20 through 30.
Furthermore, this news eliminates most teams, but the Clippers remain a viable trade candidate with their 30th overall pick. Given that it is the last choice of the draft, LA will likely have to insert more in a deal with Sacramento. However, if everything is done correctly, a top-tier producer could be in Intuit Dome next season.
The Kings may still have the heavily weighted contracts of DeMar DeRozan and Zach LaVine, but they also possess elite role players like Malik Monk and Keegan Murray, as well as the one LA should focus on acquiring: Keon Ellis.
The LA Clippers should make a shocking draft day trade for Keon Ellis of the Sacramento Kings
With a team option this summer, the Sacramento Kings could accept and trade Keon Ellis on draft night to the LA Clippers. This would fulfill their rumored desire of having a first this offseason, which they currently lack, as the Atlanta Hawks own their 13th overall pick.
However, to land Ellis, the Clippers should add in Drew Eubanks and a future second-round pick. Afterward, Lawrence Frank will be able to offer the 25-year-old defensive specimen a long-term contract extension.
This transition would also lead to a bigger opportunity for Ellis, as he played under 25 minutes per game this season. He still averaged 8.3 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 1.5 assists and could have made an All-Defensive team if the NBA did not have a strict minutes requirement on their prestigious honors.
Additionally, Ellis would be a significant upgrade to Kris Dunn, as he can constantly shoot over 40% from three and provide the same type of defensive volume.
LA would not need both on the roster, which foreshadows a Dunn trade. He is still a valuable guard and could bring in a return of another veteran or extra draft capital.