It's pretty clear that the LA Clippers' offseason is going to be one filled with tough decisions, after all, given this past season. it's tough to determine which direction to take. But one thing that's certain is that the Clippers need more shooting prowess on their roster, and making a bold move to bring back Luke Kennard could help them solve their woes in this department.
The former Clipper and veteran sharpshooter is set to become a free agent this summer. With the Memphis Grizzlies looking like they may not end up retaining him, it could be the perfect time for a reunion, and one that most fans probably wouldn't see coming.
On paper, signing a player like Luke Kennard may not look like much of a desperation move. But in reality, that could be what the Clippers are doing if they go after him. LA is going to be in need of more perimeter shooting power on their roster to surround Kawhi Leonard and James Harden with, as they enter the latter stages of their NBA careers.
Kennard shot over 44% from three-point range in all three of his seasons in Los Angeles. His floor-spacing ability and reliable shooting power was a big asset to the Clippers' offense.
The Clippers may need the shooting power Kennard brings to the table
Re-uniting with Kennard would certainly not solve all of LA's problems, and it's questionable whether it would move them up a tier when it comes to the contenders in the Western Conference. But what it would unquestionably do is address the specific need of shooting.
There's no question the Clippers' offense could have been more consistent this past season. Adding a guy with an outside shooting touch like number 10 in Memphis would limit the amount defenses can collapse on players like James Harden when they drive in the lane.
We know that Kennard doesn't need the ball in his hands to be effective. And in an offensive system that's dominated by high-usage players like Leonard and Harden, that matters a lot.
Luke obviously isn't a perfect player, and his defense is probably one of the biggest reasons the Grizzlies may not end up keeping him. But with the right price tag on his services, the benefit of adding Kennard's contributions to this current Clippers roster is going to outweigh the benefits.