Right away, or after analyzing each player in the NBA, it would not be easy to name a defender who contributes more for the money he is being paid than Kris Dunn. He complimented the anchoring efforts of Ivica Zubac, who was selected on the NBA’s All-Defensive second team, but received minimal credit because of matters out of his hands.
Furthermore, Dunn’s contract is a continuation of what he was paid on the Utah Jazz, and the Clippers will likely wait one more season before offering an extension as improvements in shooting must be seen.
However, the Clippers could also decide to trade him this summer due to his three-point shooting woes. Defense, of course, is a crucial piece of winning, but to be a point guard who cannot pull the trigger will always hurt LA in at least one way.
Moreover, an expensive upgrade like Jrue Holiday will be right at the Clippers’ fingertips this summer, or they take a risk and find someone who is similar but will accept a discount.
That said, there is a name available who was overlooked due to an ACL injury, but he will return healthy next season with a chip on his shoulder.
The LA Clippers should look to sign De-Anthony Melton on a veteran minimum this offseason
According to Keith Smith, a popular NBA reporter and insider, De’Anthony Melton could walk away from the Brooklyn Nets and sign with a contender using the veteran minimum. Melton was traded to the Nets from the Golden State Warriors amid the recovery process of his torn ACL. This deal involved Dennis Schröder and draft capital.
Because Melton has only played 44 games in the last two seasons, he will have to show his injuries are no longer a lingering problem. In the end, he will focus on signing with the teams that offer the most prosperous opportunities, and this makes the Clippers the best choice for him.
In Melton’s last season with the Philadelphia 76ers and even the Memphis Grizzlies, Melton was an elite, role-playing guard. Similar to Kris Dunn, he had his defensive sliders maxed out and would obtain steals by the use of timing and precision.
What makes Melton a legitimate upgrade is his shooting and double-digit scoring. Sure, he has been unhealthy, but when he was available, the veteran guard went back-to-back seasons in double-digit scoring while also playing over 70 games.
If signed using the prove-it strategy, the Clippers could trade Dunn and have a few extra million to pursue another target, which could lead to improvement if everything comes together.