The LA Clippers are enjoying a tremendous season in 2023-24. Coming into the year with their same core from last year, they made the admittedly risky decision of trading for James Harden just a few games into the season. But ultimately, that risk has paid off for them in a major way.
Since losing their first five games with Harden in the lineup, the Clippers have won 17 of their last 22 games and sit at fourth outright in the Western Conference. They have been looking like one of the most capable and dangerous teams in the association in recent weeks.
That does not mean, however, that they will not still be active as the NBA trade deadline approaches. Before the February 8 deadline hits, there are several players in LA that are prime candidates to be dealt elsewhere.
1. Mason Plumlee
Still yet to return to the hardwood after suffering an MCL injury in November, Mason Plumlee's minutes were replaced when the Clippers signed Daniel Theis. Plumlee's loss was huge as LA was left without a backup center, but Theis has filled his spot rather nicely, exhibiting excellent chemistry with guys like Russell Westbrook and James Harden in pick-and-roll.
The fact that Theis has been so solid could leave Plumlee on the outside looking in. If the choice for the Clippers comes down to keeping one or the other, it would not be shocking if they keep the player who has been a meaningful part of their recent strong play.