What the LA Clippers did with Nicolas Batum when they signed him after he played for the Charlotte Hornets seemed to be replicable with others, but it turns out the French Knight was a rare case. This concept ties into reviving careers, as Batum proved he was not washed following his five-season stint in Charlotte.
Furthermore, Batum was 30 in his last season with the Hornets, averaging 3.6 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 3.0 assists while shooting 34.6% from the field and 28.6% from three-point range. Any other role player averaging these numbers would soon be on their way out of the league, but the Clippers' front office gave him another chance and signed him to a prove-it deal.
One season later, Batum was signed to a two-year deal after he averaged 8.1 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 2.2 assists, with shooting splits of 46.4% from the field and 40.4% from a distance.
Moreover, Batum's resurgence in the league is used as an example by the Clippers' front office, as they attempted to replicate it with John Wall and Eric Bledsoe, but both efforts ultimately failed.
LA's latest attempt, Ben Simmons, has also been a disappointment, and it is crucial the front office swerves left and avoids resigning the former first-overall pick in the offseason.
Re-trying with Ben Simmons would be a massive mistake on the LA Clippers' end this summer
It is clear no matter the age, skillset, or experience, not every player can accomplish the same feats as Nicolas Batum on the LA Clippers. Ben Simmons was a smart attempt, as the reward would have been worth it, but he is currently in another phase of his career.
Though it sounds unreal, Simmons' scoring career-high with the Clippers was in his LA debut. Nobody knows where his confidence walked off to, but head coach Tyronn Lue cannot have his backup guard/center afraid of the rim.
In fact, Simmons played 42 minutes in the playoffs and had 11 personal fouls with just four points. On the bright side, he is a high-level rebounder and playmaker, which could benefit some teams. However, the Clippers are not on that list, as they need aggressiveness in their rotation.
Given Simmons' flaws, it would be smart for the Clippers' front office to avoid a bullet and let him walk, as his value could drop even lower if he continues to underperform. At that point, he will be unwanted, and LA will be stuck.