A choice the LA Clippers are certainly pondering, which would catch many fans and potentially interested destinations by surprise, is keeping Kawhi Leonard. It makes sense when factoring in that Leonard is still elite. But to really make it worth it and ensure the organization gets the most out of his last year on the books, the front office must branch out and sign Zach LaVine (player option), who currently resides in Sacramento.
On paper, LaVine’s addition seems perfect. He’s a credible All-Star who can score at a streaky, high pace. Though he hasn’t won much in his career, his fit next to Leonard and Darius Garland would be almost seamless.
And, with possibly $43 million in cap space this summer, the money is certainly there for the Clippers to snag LaVine on a short-term deal.
Zach LaVine is a credible All-Star that the Clippers could use
While Zach LaVine’s name has been flying under the radar, with all of the star noise surrounding Kevin Durant, Kawhi Leonard, and Giannis Antetokounmpo, he is certainly someone who should not be overlooked on the market.
If his two All-Star selections don’t say it, let LaVine’s averages and efficiencies over the years tell you why he would be an extremely useful addition to the LA Clippers over the summer.
Over the course of his career, which is 693 games, LaVine has averaged 20.7 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 3.9 assists, shooting 47.0% from the floor and 39.1% from beyond the arc.
That’s pretty impressive, and because he understands how to space the floor, no concerns pop up about what he would look like under Tyronn Lue. LaVine could start, or take the sixth man route, and become a spark piece off the bench, catching opponents by surprise.
On the flip side, though, are injury concerns. LaVine played only 39 games for the Sacramento Kings last season and has missed chunks of time in several years prior.
As a result, the Clippers should offer LaVine a contract that’s not fully guaranteed. This is the precautionary route teams take to avoid the commitment to guys like LaVine, who, to some, might be considered injury-prone.
Then again, if LaVine is in a winning situation, his health could improve, the same way Kawhi Leonard’s and John Collins’ recently did.
So, at the end of the day, LaVine is perfect for LA. He has several tools that could really help, and on the right contract, signing him is a smart choice if the Clippers don’t trade Leonard.
Add us as a preferred source on Google