By the game, the LA Clippers’ dire need for a quality backup center is becoming more noticeable. Head coach Tyronn Lue has to limit the weight he places on star Ivica Zubac, who deserves multiple resting periods. Lue has no room for an injury to his starting big man, backing up how quickly the front office must make a move.
Conversely, this season, there are not many suitors on the market that fit the Clippers’ standards. They need someone productive on both sides of the ball who can stay healthy and provide his best effort regardless of their role.
Moreover, an NBA writer for ClutchPoints, Brett Siegel, recently offered two names that could fit the vacant role behind Zubac. Both players bring their traits to the court, leaving the decision to the mastermind of executive Lawrence Frank.
The LA Clippers are actively searching for frontcourt help, league sources told @ClutchPoints.
— Brett Siegel (@BrettSiegelNBA) January 17, 2025
Chris Boucher and Robert Williams III are among multiple players the Clippers hold interest in ahead of the trade deadline.
Teams are also inquiring about Terance Mann. https://t.co/vJqo8K9uG8
Will trading for Robert Williams make the LA Clippers better later in the regular season?
Former first-round pick Robert Williams would fill the LA Clippers’ role behind Ivica Zubac wonderfully. He is one of the league’s best big defensive men, and he will become another lob threat for former MVP James Harden.
This season, Williams is averaging 6.4 points and 5.2 boards, shooting 69.4% from the field for the Portland Trail Blazers. Although these numbers are solid in 16.6 minutes, his biggest concern is health.
Through seven seasons in the NBA, Williams has only surpassed 60 games once. This is a poor look for a 27-year-old entering the most productive stages of his career.
Should the LA Clippers look north and trade for center Chris Boucher?
Seven-year veteran Chris Boucher would bring a different playstyle than what LA Clipper fans are used to seeing from their starting center. Boucher is an above-average three-point shooter who loves to score and defend the cup.
Through 37 games, Boucher has averaged 10.4 points and 4.5 rebounds in 17.5 minutes per contest.
Conversely, Boucher attempts 7.6 shots a game off the bench, including 3.8 from long range. Despite being nearly seven feet tall, the two-time champion shoots under 50% from the floor. The front office must examine this aspect of his game before submitting an offer.
Between Boucher and Williams, who should the LA Clippers trade for?
The LA Clippers should eliminate Robert Williams from their list of options and trade with Toronto for Chris Boucher.
As Williams owns an unwanted injury history, Boucher brings a unique skill set that could force defenses to adjust once Ivica Zubac checks out. In addition, he has championship experience, which is something the Clippers could utilize in the locker room.