John Collins is making the LA Clippers look like geniuses for trading Norman Powell to acquire him. After a slow start that had critics questioning the deal, Collins has found his groove at exactly the right time, playing aggressive defense and attacking the rim with the confidence that made him a standout in Atlanta. His recent performances have been instrumental in the Clippers' historic 16-3 run that's vaulted them back into playoff contention.
Against the Los Angeles Lakers, Collins contributed key plays down the stretch, including a crucial three-pointer that extended LA's lead to eight points during a tense fourth quarter. His ability to stretch the floor while providing athletic rim-running that Powell couldn't match has proven to be exactly what the Clippers needed to complement their aging superstars. Fans who once lamented losing Powell's scoring punch are now celebrating Collins' two-way impact.
The timing of Collins' emergence couldn't be better. With the February trade deadline approaching and his name circulating in rumors, the power forward has responded by proving he might be untouchable.
John Collins has learned from the best in the business
John Collins has credited his success to the mentorship of Kawhi Leonard and James Harden. In a recent interview, he explained how playing alongside two future Hall of Famers has elevated his game.
Additionally, he has given flowers to those off the court. In the same interview, Collins praised coach Tyronn Lue and the entire coaching staff for their willingness to invest in his development.
This mutual respect has created an environment where Collins can thrive. He's no longer forcing things or trying to do too much. Instead, he's playing within the system, making the right reads, and letting his athleticism and versatility shine. The result has been exactly what the Clippers envisioned when they made the trade: a dynamic two-way forward who can defend multiple positions and provide spacing.
Trade rumors don't seem to faze John Collins anymore
Despite his name appearing in trade speculation as the deadline approaches, John Collins remains unfazed. His response to the rumors shows a maturity that comes from experience.
"But what happens with management and trade deadlines, that’s all sort of the same every year. There’s the stories and the machines. But for me, it’s just the basketball. What’s different out there is the biggest part for me. But whatever the media and trade rumors want to say, that’s what they do. You just block it out. It really doesn’t faze me. I just see it as part of the game."John Collins
Collins has also fallen in love with the organization, particularly praising owner Steve Ballmer's investment in the team and the state-of-the-art Intuit Dome.
The Clippers would be foolish to move Collins now. He's found his role, earned the trust of his coaches and teammates, and is playing the best basketball of his ninth season. With the team 16-3 in their last 19 games and climbing toward the playoffs, keeping the core together makes far more sense than chasing upgrades that might disrupt the chemistry. Collins has proven he belongs in LA, and the results speak for themselves.