4 Clippers who could be forced into retirement after the season
By Tyler Watts
2. Mason Plumlee
Plumlee was a first-round draft pick in 2013 and had two brothers play in the NBA. The veteran has filled a key role on six different playoff teams and was a starter for three straight years before joining the Clippers at the 2023 trade deadline. He backed up Ivica Zubac last season, but his role has been inconsistent in 2023-24.
The 34-year-old has played just 7.2 minutes per game over his last 11 contests. He is in the rotation but has topped ten minutes just twice. Plumlee becomes an unrestricted free agent this summer and it is fair to wonder how much the 6’10 big man has left in the tank.
The Clippers have a 116.1 defensive rating with him on the floor this season, which would rank 21st in the NBA over the full year. He struggles to defend on the perimeter, and teams will attack him relentlessly in the playoffs. Plumlee still offers some unique playmaking and is a strong rebounder at the five. Will that be enough to land him a job next season?
The 11-year NBA veteran will have options. Even if he cannot find an NBA gig, there will be overseas interest. Mason Plumlee may try to hold out for a bench role on an NBA contender, but that opportunity may not come.