The LA Clippers' replacement of a high-end scorer for another, with John Collins coming in and Norman Powell going out, will deliver several benefits to the starting rotation of head coach Tyronn Lue. These levels of improvement extend beyond just scoring, as that is an aspect in which Powell had zero flaws.
Furthermore, Collins is a big man who has springs in his shoes, similar to Derrick Jones Jr. The difference is that he can play the power forward position, and averaged 8.2 rebounds this season, which will help Ivica Zubac significantly in the post.
While also grabbing board after board, Collins shot 39.9% from three-point land, basically 40%, which will most aid James Harden and Kawhi Leonard in traffic. This is something that would have countered the Denver Nuggets' playoff strategy of forcing Jones Jr. and Kris Dunn to shoot.
On the contrary, by letting Powell go, the Clippers created a hole at the guard position, as they need someone inexpensive who can score at all three levels. Chris Paul is an option, but he is not an elite bucket-getter, which likely eliminates LA from signing him this summer unless he is open to a veteran-minimum agreement.
This makes Bradley Beal the top alternative, who could be great in Intuit Dome if he didn't hammer down on the Clippers' kryptonite, which was worsened after the three-team trade for Collins.
The LA Clippers' injury weaknesses will worsen at various levels if Bradley Beal is signed
As Bradley Beal and the Phoenix Suns are rumored to be working on a contract buy-out, the Miami Heat were interested in bringing him to South Beach. However, since they have just acquired Norman Powell from the LA Clippers, it does not make sense to sign Beal once he is bought out.
On the other hand, the Clippers need a guard, and with $5.3 million left of their mid-level exception, Beal is the primary target, who would have the best opportunity of his career to win a ring.
The downside of snatching Beal from the free agent market is a major injury risk. He has been absent for a substantial amount of time over the last few seasons, thus making it illogical to pursue him, given LA's injury-prone history. Additionally, the Clippers just landed John Collins, who played well for the Utah Jazz, but only recorded 40 contests.
Beal, Collins, and Kawhi Leonard in the starting lineup will intensify the concerns of coaches and fans, as these three have struggled at multiple points in their careers to stay on the floor.