Due to the LA Clippers’ void at sixth man, head coach Tyronn Lue is being forced to play the former Houston Rocket, Kevin Porter Jr. This strategy has tarnished the team’s success and will continue to do so if an acquisition has not been made at the trade deadline.
Moreover, Porter Jr. has averaged 9.6 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 3.3 assists, shooting an atrocious 24.4% from long distance. These contributions are what Lue has received from the player he is relying on in 19.7 minutes off the bench.
With the trade deadline approximately three weeks away, the front office could encounter difficulties landing a backup point guard behind the former MVP, James Harden. Lue needs a three-level scorer who can handle the rock and score baskets productively. They anticipated this from Porter Jr., as he brings a Harden-esque style of play on the offensive side of the court.
If the front office is unable to obtain the sixth man of their dreams, they could inform Lue to finish the season on a different note. This would clear the way for former Miami Hurricane Jordan Miller to succeed, something Clipper fans have been asking since the beginning of pre-season.
Jordan Miller could enter the starting lineup if the LA Clippers’ plans to secure a sixth man at the deadline fall through.
As the LA Clippers have a prominent gap in scoring and efficiency off the bench, their championship aspirations will vanish immediately if a change is not made. The best choice would be to ship the contracts of reserves P.J. Tucker and Bones Hyland for a reputable threat.
Conversely, executive Lawrence Frank has few options to explore at the deadline. This could lead the front office to stick with what they already have and make adjustments accordingly.
The only switch that could work is moving the premier scorer, Norman Powell, to the bench. However, Tyronn Lue must pick a wing to join the starting five.
Of the options available, Jordan Miller will be the most impactful. He has a high IQ, which allows him to score and defend at the NBA level. When Miller is not adding to the box scores, he is moving around and generating points for his teammates.
At the minimum, Miller should receive an extended trial run with the starters, which will provide Lue with enough tape to evaluate his next move.
That said, leaning towards Miller is the solution for Lue and the Clippers’ bench. He deserves an opportunity to play, as he is young, athletic, and talented. This change will rapidly boost the ratings of LA's offense.