5 Potential Clippers free agent targets with ties to Kawhi Leonard

Just 11 more days remain before the start of free agency, and the LA Clippers will have a lot on their hands to deal with. Paul George can still opt in to his player option and return to Los Angeles, which would set up the Clippers' likely plan to run things back. But should he opt to depart, LA will have to figure things out in a hurry.

Regardless of PG's decision, the Clippers will need to be intentional with which free agents they pursue. They will need to follow the 2024 NBA champion Boston Celtics' lead by choosing to sign role players that both fit well alongside their established stars as well as align with their overall vision as a team.

We also know that keeping your star players happy is always important, and there is no one more important to the Clippers' success than Kawhi Leonard. There are several free agents LA can take a look at in July that already have an established connection with Kawhi.

1. Kyle Lowry

Looking down the list of available free agents, one that pops off the page right away is Kyle Lowry. Acting as Leonard's starting point guard in his lone year with the Toronto Raptors, Lowry will be an unrestricted free agent come the start of July.

He was obviously a massive part of a championship team a half decade ago, and that alone carries value. Lowry may be on the older side now, but he still brings some useful skills to the table. He can be an excellent game-managing point guard that can hit timely shots and distribute without needing to make flashy plays.

Pursuing Lowry would make the most sense if James Harden opts to leave this summer. Having a good distributor is of course vital to team success, and the Clippers could end up in a tough situation if Harden heads for greener pastures. Lowry could likely be signed for a deal cheaper than the one he is playing on now, given his drop off in overall production.