The expectation for John Collins in his first full season as an LA Clipper is to play the same as he did with the Utah Jazz, even if it means his averages decrease. He could receive a consistent margin of 30 minutes, but Collins will not be the primary shot creator, leading to an inevitable drop in points, but a possible increase in efficiency.
Furthermore, the Clippers need Collins to connect with James Harden, especially on pick-and-rolls and in alley-oop action, as well as to shoot well from beyond the arc, crash the glass, and defend with energy and physicality.
He will be forced to improve his defense with Jeff Van Gundy coaching him up, but the rest are a part of what the former first-round pick can already do. His play style has not necessarily changed since he was with the Atlanta Hawks; it has simply flourished into the final phase of complete development.
Nonetheless, head coach Tyronn Lue and the Clippers’ front office have a dream and vision for Collins next season. This likely pertains to a starting power forward role, with Kawhi Leonard at small forward and Ivica Zubac at center.
This is where Lue should adjust before even trying to see what works, as he would likely dominate at higher levels in times of better spacing in the second unit.
The LA Clippers should have John Collins come off the bench, rather than doing what everyone is expecting
Although John Collins has been a starter for the majority of his career, he could realize that, like Lou Williams and Jamal Crawford, he plays better on the bench. Of course, he is worthy of a starting spot, but because of fit with the rest, Collins’ game matches Brook Lopez’s, who is the backup to Ivica Zubac.
Moreover, the paint will be too crowded, with Zubac and Kawhi Leonard in the starting lineup, similar to what happened with the Atlanta Hawks when they acquired Clint Capela.
Because Lopez can shoot, and assuming the Clippers sign Chris Paul, Collins will look like the world's best bench player as the second-string four-man in Inglewood, California. He will still have a guard on the lookout for alley-oops, and the paint will be clear for him to slash to the cup.
This strategy means LA will have to acquire another power forward, preferably one who can start; however, this is not a significant issue, as several are still available on the market, even on a veteran minimum contract.