Patrick Bladwin Jr., a former five-star recruit, summer and G-League standout, and one-and-done product from the Milwaukee Panthers, was just signed to a ten-day contract by the LA Clippers. It is a limited time frame for him to prove himself, but it is a start that could lead to the front office working something out with him.
Per team source, the LA Clippers are signing Patrick Baldwin Jr. to a 10-day contract.
— Law Murray 🐐 (@LawMurrayTheNU) January 16, 2026
He is expected to join the team in time for Monday's game at Washington. Baldwin has been with San Diego Clippers and finished last season on two-way contract with LAC
Baldwin Jr. concluded the 2024-25 regular season on a two-way contract with the San Diego Clippers, and this season with the same squad, he averaged 21.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, and 1.5 steals, shooting 51.1% from the field.
As Law Murray of ‘The Athletic’ reported, Baldwin Jr. will likely be with the team against the Washington Wizards, which is the front-end of a back-to-back.
Thus, inserting one of the top talents in the G-League on a team like the Clippers that needs depth is certainly news. Just by traveling may hint that an opportunity could come his way.
Patrick Baldwin Jr. may be needed off the bench to start the week
The timing of signing Patrick Baldwin Jr. to a 10-day contract says it all: the LA Clippers want an extra piece who could be used if Kawhi Leonard does not suit up, even if the player they chose has not gotten any run with the team this season.
Additionally, it is worth noting that Leonard did not suit up last night versus the Toronto Raptors. He has been questionable with the same injury designation over the last few games, but ahead of Toronto, the Clippers ruled him out.
Leonard is also known to split back-to-backs for rest. He played the most recent game between the Brooklyn Nets and Detroit Pistons, where the Clippers won the pair, but with a troubling ankle, Leonard might opt for the extensive option and just show up on Tuesday versus the Chicago Bulls.
Therefore, Monday’s contest has a Baldwin Jr. presence off the bench written on it. He just needs a warm-up under his belt, as with his strength, athleticism, and floor spacing, head coach Tyronn Lue will maximize his abilities like a hidden secret and shock the Wizards.
That said, the front office played matters strategically and signed the player who had experience with the organization. Lawrence Frank did not draft Baldwin Jr., but he has been in the Clippers’ spirit since last March. Now, on a contract that is limited to just over a week, he can shine in various ways on and off the court.