Potential buyout candidate has emerged for the Clippers following Nets-Lakers trade

With the growing need for a scoring guard off the bench, the LA Clippers have multiple options. They could trade for one at the deadline or take a safer approach and search the free agent market. Either way, the front office must make a move if they hope to pursue the Larry O’Brien Trophy.

Furthermore, the Los Angeles Lakers recently made a significant trade with the Brooklyn Nets that could help the Clippers in the long run. They shipped away guard D’Angelo Russell, forward Maxwell Lewis, and three second-round picks for two contributing role-players in Dorian Finney-Smith and Shake Milton.

According to NBA insider Brett Siegel, Russell is expected to be a buyout candidate following the multi-player trade between the Lakers and Nets. This is crucial for the Clippers, as they could make a move for the former all-star point guard.

Acquiring D’Angelo Russell would elevate the Clippers’ bench significantly.

Although the LA Clippers have limited cap space, D’Angelo Russell would likely agree to a minimum deal on a championship contender. He would be promised a prominent role off the bench and the opportunity to compete next to franchise superstar Kawhi Leonard.

Through 2023-24, Russell averaged 18.0 points and 6.3 assists in 76 games for the Los Angeles Lakers. Additionally, he shot an efficient 45.6% from the field and 41.5% from three. These impressive numbers indicate what the three-level scorer can do with the right coaching and surroundings.

If the Clippers make a move for Russell, they will be forced to move on from the former Houston Rocket, Kevin Porter Jr. This would play out perfectly for the team’s title hopes, as Porter Jr. appears to be out of place in the game plan of head coach Tyronn Lue. 

Moreover, Russell, at age 28, is fully capable of checking in and shooting the lights out. On the nights he remains off target, he can still make an impact by constantly moving and creating easier shots for the team’s top scorers.

In closing lineups, Russell would dominate next to the former MVP, James Harden. His only duty would be to knock down open shots, as opponents tend to trap Harden, forcing him into a difficult pass. 

That said, the fit between Russell and the Clippers is clear as day. He checks off what the front office is looking for and will be given a prove-it deal to compete for a long-term contract. If everything works out, Russell could play under Intuit Dome for years into the future.