From superstars to role players, the LA Clippers have developed their unique standard in fighting for a championship. They hold a three-headed snake in stars Kawhi Leonard, James Harden, and Norman Powell while having an elite glass cleaner in Ivica Zubac. These four make up the foundation for head coach Tyronn Lue.
However, the Clippers’ front office must search for a viable sixth man with a massive trade deadline ahead. They have multiple options available on the market, as former Houston Rocket Kevin Porter Jr. is far from what Lue needs in a star off the bench.
Typically, around the deadline each year, opposing teams make it clear who is on the trade block. This smart strategy provides buyers with enough time to put together a reasonable offer.
Regarding the Clippers, they could look to add three-time all-star Bradley Beal to their primary rotation. He appears to be on the verge of exiting the valley, as the Suns’ coaching staff recently changed Beal’s status in the starting lineup.
The LA Clippers should be interested in acquiring Bradley Beal at the deadline to solve their issues off the bench.
After a season and some change with the Suns, Bradley Beal could be traded to the LA Clippers at the deadline. This would be significant news for Tyronn Lue, as he could move Norman Powell to the bench, fixing the miscues deep into the rotation.
Recently, head coach Mike Budenholzer decided it was best to have Beal come off the bench, which could indicate a trade by the deadline. He used this as encouragement and scored 25 points in his first game as the Suns' sixth man.
Thirty-six hours later, ESPN insider Brian Winhorst disclosed the news on the Suns trying to move on from Beal.
Though Beal has a no-trade clause, he may waive it to play with Kawhi Leonard and James Harden. Conversely, the Clippers will be able to pull off nearly any trade if the finances line up, as they will have far more leverage in landing the 12-year veteran.
In 24 games this season, Beal is averaging 18.1 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 3.2 assists on an efficient 48.9% shooting from the field. These numbers would instantly help the Clippers’ slow-paced offense.
Nonetheless, acquiring Beal and adjusting Powell’s role is the best-case scenario for the Clippers’ odds of winning the championship. They will have a top-notch scorer in the starting lineup, with another dominating as a sixth man.