As the LA Clippers begin operating in free agency as a team, a dream they have is for John Collins to return. His services are not a want, but a need, as he offers high-end three-point shooting, finishing athleticism, and defense. However, per Jake Fischer of ‘The Stein Line,’ the Orlando Magic, San Antonio Spurs, and Philadelphia 76ers are expected to be interested in Collins, and because they may be able to offer more money, the 28-year-old might’ve been a one-and-done in LA.
If he does end up leaving, the Clippers’ side of LA will be hurt. Not because he did wrong in choosing a winning situation that had the contract he wanted waiting for him, but solely due to the fact that he quickly became a fan favorite, and someone who isn’t easily replaceable.
If the Clippers don’t re-sign Collins, there will be a massive hole in the frontcourt
Although the beginning of John Collins tenure with the LA Clippers wasn’t what everyone hoped for, he found a groove mid-season and consistently carried it all the way until the end. This is why the Clippers want him back in free agency; it isn’t about how you start, it’s how you finish.
In the same breath, how many power forwards are there on the market that can replicate, or even come close, to Collins’ production?
We’re talking about someone who is in his prime, is the perfect threat to have alongside a playmaker in Darius Garland, and just averaged 13.6 points and 5.3 rebounds, shooting 55.2% from the field and 40.6% from beyond the arc. In addition, Collins led the Clippers through some difficult times, including when he logged 25 points and four blocks against the Detroit Pistons.
The answer? Not many. One could argue that guys like Peyton Watson, a restricted free agent, and Jonathan Kuminga, who just had his team option declined by the Atlanta Hawks, are similar, but in reality, those two will be well beyond the Clippers’ budget. If LA wants either, they’ll have to make moves to create cap space.
That said, in the event Collins leaves LA, the front office will be between a rock and a hard place. They won’t know what to do or who to sign, as the things Collins brings to the table are not easily found across the league.
Describing him as someone the Clippers need to resign might be an understatement.
Add us as a preferred source on Google