4 Clippers who could be forced into retirement after the season

3. Bones Hyland

The Clippers have Hyland under contract for $4.1 million next season, but there are questions about his place in the NBA. The first-round draft pick in 2021 was traded by the Nuggets in 2023. He has been in and out of the rotation with the Clippers this season and was shopped at the deadline.

If LA could not trade him on a $2.3 million contract, it will be difficult to do. The Clippers may look to dump his expiring contract this summer. They could move on and the team acquiring him may try to buy him out.

Since joining the Clippers, the 23-year-old is averaging 7.3 points, 2.6 assists, and 1.8 rebounds in 15.2 minutes per game. He has shot just 38.0 percent from the field and 33.1 percent on his threes during that 46-game sample. The franchise even sent him home from a road trip, and he has a negative-5.1 net rating this season.

The 6’2 guard is playing for his NBA future. The Clippers are unlikely to just waive him with a full guaranteed season left on his contract but do not rule out a trade and buyout. Hyland likely goes overseas and shines if he chooses to take that route. Does LA keep him on their roster after this season? It is a serious question at this point.