With the conclusion of the February deadline, the LA Clippers made three trades, all to help their future and current situation in the Western Conference. There was no all-star addition, but Lawrence Frank found loopholes to set the Clippers up for years of success.
Furthermore, the sequence of events is precisely how Frank moved the Clippers to a better position while keeping every valuable piece.
In fact, the deal with Utah helped the most financially. They got rid of P.J. Tucker, Mo Bamba, a second-round pick, and cash for Drew Eubanks and Patty Mills. This was crucial, as they went from above the luxury tax to below.
Despite having more money to utilize, the Clippers were without open roster spots to make any extra additions. The front office recognized this and made two more trades to help LA.
In a two-for-one swap with Atlanta, the Clippers dealt Terance Mann and Bones Hyland for Bogdan Bogdanović. This created more space, as Frank also received three second-round picks from the Hawks.
The final trade, four minutes before the 3 PM(ET) deadline, was an exchange of Kevin Porter Jr. for MarJon Beauchamp with the Milwaukee Bucks. This move was more for the future, as Beauchamp holds notable potential.
Although the Clippers did not make a blockbuster trade, they accomplished their goals of shipping the players on the block and avoiding the luxury tax.
The LA Clippers’ trades have them as the top buyout destination throughout the NBA.
Following their roster transactions, the LA Clippers have the choice to buy out the best player for their bench. This will likely be a point guard, as Lawrence Frank moved two ball handlers, Kevin Porter Jr. and Bones Hyland, to different cities.
Moreover, the Clippers will likely be on call with the Brooklyn Nets to sign either D’Angelo Russell or Ben Simmons after their contract is terminated.
Russell is the better scorer, but Simmons allows Tyronn Lue to be more creative with his rotations. This is due to size and skillset, as the former first-overall pick can flourish as a playmaking guard or big.
The issue with Simmons is coincidentally one of the Clippers’ most familiar nightmare: injuries. He is a great player, but his back issues date back to when he was with the Philadelphia 76ers.
As there are other options obtainable, the Clippers should take command of their freedom and add the best fit possible.