5. Norman Powell
The Clippers want to keep Paul George and James Harden. They could blame their first-round playoff exit on Kawhi’s injury, but LA still must improve their roster. The Clippers will be over the second tax apron, which will leave just minimum contracts and trades to upgrade.
Powell is set to make $19.2 million next season and does not hit free agency until 2026. LA cannot take back more money than they send out or aggregate contracts in trades. The 6’3 wing’s contract may be large enough for the Clippers to find an upgrade making less.
Powell’s counting stats dipped, but his efficiency soared in 2024. He averaged 13.9 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 1.1 assists in 26.2 minutes per game while shooting 48.6 percent from the field, 43.5 percent on his threes, and 83.1 percent from the free throw line. Powell did not get as many shots after James Harden came to LA, but he still finished fourth in the Sixth Man of the Year voting.
Can the LA Clippers find a better fit with their current core? They would love to add a floor spacing four capable of moving down to the five in small ball units. Their front office may try to find a trade, especially if PG13 and Harden commit to returning.