With the February 6th deadline two weeks away, the LA Clippers must moves based on what they need. As there are major holes on the bench that have been avoided all season, the front office will have to try their luck and accommodate with the help of another team.
Moreover, the Clippers’ first concern must be veteran forward P.J. Tucker. Despite not playing, he has been collecting checks all season. This is a prominent issue, and the front office should listen to any offer they receive that includes Tucker’s contract.
Additionally, the Clippers have multiple others that must be shipped. If the active rotation becomes perfected by the deadline, head coach Tyronn Lue could take his team into conversations no one expected LA to be in.
Furthermore, the Milwaukee Bucks are a team that could consider proposals from the Clippers. Their front office has contracts they desire to ship, and executive Lawrence Frank will hear them out if Tucker and others are included.
Nonetheless, Frank and his staff should watch the film on three-time all-star Khris Middleton and decide whether he is a star they should hunt. If so, the Bucks will likely be open to accepting what the Clippers have to offer.
Khris Middleton joins the LA Clippers in a proposal that sends four players to Milwaukee.
Coming from 12 seasons with the Bucks, Khris Middleton could use a clean slate with the LA Clippers. He is the perfect veteran to call upon, as Middleton brings efficient, effective scoring in every stage of offense.
This season, Middleton is averaging 12.6 points, 5.1 assists, and 3.9 rebounds, shooting 48% from the floor and 37.7% from a distance.
Given the 2021 NBA champion profits just over $31 million annually, the LA Clippers will send bench players Terance Mann, Nicolas Batum, P.J. Tucker, and Kevin Porter Jr. In addition, LA will also receive a three-point threat in Gary Trent Jr.
For the Bucks, this proposal is an excellent way to move past Middleton. Though he has a player option for next season, the 33-year-old forward will accept due to his lucrative contract.
Although Milwaukee may prefer to retain Trent Jr., they land Mann, who could be a stronger fit in their scheme.
Conversely, this package is a risk for the Clippers, as Middleton presents a significant injury history. However, the trade is worth it, as they will have moved numerous players who did not fit. This proposal also provides LA with Trent Jr., an elite offensive talent.
Trade Grade: A-