By trading Shai Gilgeous-Alexander in 2019, the LA Clippers left their future of their backcourt in the hands of Terance Mann, the team's second-round pick from that summer. He showed significant signs of promise at Florida State, and the front office loved what he offered on both ends of the floor.
As a rookie, Mann developed quietly in the G-League. Although he would be called up on occasion, the coaching staff firmly believed he would benefit most on the San Diego Clippers (Agua Caliente Clippers at the time). This decision was precise, and though it, Terance began to find his footing in the NBA.
Since then, Mann has found himself on the Clippers’ short list of most valuable players. He has proven to be reliable as a starter or off the bench, and these variables enticed the front office into extending him on a three-year, $47 million deal.
Terance Mann’s value will continue to rise
The Clippers could not have chosen a better time to extend Terance Mann. He is in excellent position to enter a career year for head coach Tyronn Lue, and the market will be much different next summer. If the front office had waited until Mann became a free agent, they could have spent a fortune trying re-sign their homegrown star.
Last season, Mann performed fairly well for Lue and the Clippers. He averaged 8.8 points and 3.4 rebounds while shooting 51.5% from the field. Mann was put to a real test in the playoffs, where he dominated. The former Florida State Seminole posted 9.3 points and 5.0 rebounds on a three-point percentage of 45.5%. This is especially impressive considering Terance plays all 94 feet of the court.
With an adjusted roster, Lue may provide Mann with more opportunities, particularly on offense. He is likely to receive designed plays, allowing him to impact all three levels. It is seemingly impossible for him not to succeed in a limitless role under one of the league’s best two-way systems.
That said, signing Mann to under $16 million annually was an excellent decision from the front office. He does all the little things and presents himself as a true veteran in the NBA. Getting him back on board was the best way to enter the regular season in a new arena at Intuit Dome.