With their name in rumors from credible insiders and major media outlets, the LA Clippers are not moving in silence for their pursuit of a third All-Star. They believe adding one more is mandatory, and if Ivica Zubac can be held back, the acquisition will most likely be made between the end of the NBA Finals and the season opener (2025-26).
The Clippers, at some point after their first-round loss, were in the mix for Kevin Durant and Giannis Antetokounmpo. However, with time, change is inevitable, and LA has a much higher chance of ending up with neither.
This does not mean their pursuit is over, as the Clippers will consider what is available around the league, even if the player is tiered below Durant and Antetokounmpo, and inquire about the sticker price.
The Boston Celtics were one of the teams expected to receive a call from LA, but they may only be interested in moving Jrue Holiday and/or Kristaps Porziņģis, potentially leading to disinterest from executive Lawrence Frank.
The next team that may expect to be phoned is the New Orleans Pelicans, and though fans may hope the talks surround Herb Jones, it may be for CJ McCollum, who should be avoided this summer by any means necessary.
Any trade call involving CJ McCollum should coerce an immediate voicemail from executive Lawrence Frank
If the LA Clippers found out CJ McCollum was available during the midst of his era with the Portland Trail Blazers, they would have likely traded the asking cost, as he was one of the best second options in the league.
He may have never made an All-Star team, but each February, McCollum was regarded as a snub. He would consistently average over 20 points, and in 2016-17, the veteran guard suited up for 80 contests and posted 23 points per game the very next year after winning the NBA’s Most Improved Player award.
In nearly a decade, McCollum had a few more great seasons with Portland, was traded to the New Orleans Pelicans, and recorded some solid campaigns in Smoothie King Center.
However, McCollum is currently on a significant $30 million-plus deal with one year left. Given this, the Pelicans could look to part ways with him and may accept any proposal in the trade machine.
The Clippers should stop themselves in their tracks and make an easy-no decision by avoiding McCollum. The veteran guard has never been an All-Star and is not worth trading for, especially when taking into account he will be 34 by opening night.