While the LA Clippers remain in championship contention status, they have willingly reached out, acquired, and aimed developed young talent. This was the case for Bones Hyland in 2023, and one of the motors behind working with talents like Ivica Zubac, Terance Mann, and Amir Coffey.
In some instances, their hard work pays off. Zubac is now an integral part of the Clippers’ franchise, and Coffey is a valued role player who has been a difference-maker off the bench.
In others, patience dies down. Hyland and Mann were packaged together in a trade to Atlanta hours ago after years of effort from head coach Tyronn Lue and his staff.
Moreover, in another deal, the Clippers sent former USC Trojan Kevin Porter Jr. to the Bucks for MarJon Beauchamp, the next rising star Lue hopes to guide.
The Los Angeles Clippers are trading Kevin Porter Jr. to the Milwaukee Bucks for MarJon Beauchamp, sources tell ESPN.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) February 6, 2025
Right now, Beauchamp may not seem like much, as his talents were hidden on a title contender. However, he has the potential to become part of the Clippers after the era of franchise superstar Kawhi Leonard.
To receive Beauchamp for Porter Jr. is something executive Lawrence Frank should pat himself on the back for, especially if the Clippers sign the young star past his rookie contract.
MarJon Beauchamp may be young and inexperienced, but he offers more to the LA Clippers than Kevin Porter Jr.
Though MarJon Beauchamp enters the LA Clippers’ roster with basic experience, head coach Tyronn Lue will develop him in due time. He will soon receive his opportunity, and this is where his readiness will come into play.
Furthermore, on the Bucks, he has proven his ability to shoot and crash the glass. This is a good foundation for entering a new city with a different preparation scheme.
Last season was the best of three for Beauchamp, as he averaged 4.4 points and 2.1 rebounds while posting near 50-40 efficiencies in 12.7 minutes off the bench. If he were not playing behind countless veterans, the former first-round pick would have been the future for Milwaukee.
As the potential is clear, Beauchamp’s attitude and work ethic will decide his next contract.
With Kevin Porter Jr., Lue was running circles around his role until the deadline arrived. Despite being severely inefficient, Porter Jr. was a must-play as he put pressure on defenses.
Now, with veteran Bogdan Bogdanović taking Porter Jr.’s minutes, Lue does not need his help as they found better in a trade with Atlanta.
Trade Grade: B