Outside of drafting and developing, one way to find a future is to acquire a player who has shown flashes of potential but has not been maxed out yet with the keys in his hands. The Indiana Pacers went this route when they acquired Tyrese Haliburton from the Sacramento Kings, and the New York Knicks did something similar when they signed Jalen Brunson in free agency.
In the event James Harden's contract situation unfolds disastrously, the LA Clippers will need to shift from first to second gear and start the rebuild. It would be a last-minute plan, but if the former MVP asks for money the franchise cannot afford, Kawhi Leonard's name would not be safe from the trade block.
There are countless starting points in terms of future franchise guys around the league. These talents are bright, young, and eager to be the first option, as the ultimate individual regular season goal is to be an MVP.
Moreover, the Clippers should build around a guard, given who they already have at center, Ivica Zubac. They need someone who is athletically inclined and fearless but still in the ideal age range to be the future.
The Detroit Pistons have someone and could trade him if they opt not to offer a long-term extension.
Former fifth-overall pick Jaden Ivey should be the top priority if the cookie crumbles with James Harden
While the concept of starting over now seems far-fetched, it is possible if James Harden goes out like Paul George or believes the LA Clippers do not have the best avenue to win the NBA Finals.
Furthermore, quick thinking will be crucial, and the first guard that should come to mind is the Detroit Pistons rising star, Jaden Ivey. He is still unproven as a leader, but signs have been on display since he was drafted.
Last season, Ivey suffered a gruesome injury that sidelined him, but he still averaged 17.6 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 4.0 assists, shooting 46.0% from the field and 40.9% from beyond the arc.
Along with Ivey, Detroit must include draft capital and a hefty contract, such as Tobias Harris. In return, they would receive Harden, who may sign an extension after accepting his player option and being traded.
Harris has also been a part of the Clipper culture before, in 2018-19, so it would be a nice reunion for both sides, given the amount of upgrades Steve Ballmer has added.