The LA Clippers can’t wait for the upcoming season to tip-off! They’re hosting key players and counting the days until star Kawhi Leonard returns to full health. Leonard will readmit himself at the beginning of next season. The franchise is hoping to improve off last year’s success by continuing to bolster its roster, highlighted by the addition of superstar Bradley Beal.
James Harden, the biggest piece of the Clippers’ all-in strategy, signed a two-year deal. This contract is worth $81.5 million. It contains a player option and a partial guarantee. However, this contract provides Harden the opportunity to stretch his salary space further. If he chooses to go that direction someday, that path will be there for him. His experience, leadership, and versatility bring immeasurable value to the club as they look ahead to a promising 2021 campaign.
Just a year ago, Kawhi Leonard was on a Hall of Fame level playing next to Russell Westbrook on the Wizards. Now, he wants to continue building on that success with even greater talent surrounding him in Los Angeles. Even with those unfortunate departures from form, the Clippers have completely transformed their roster, clearly looking to build themselves a competitive edge in the league.
Bradley Beal – two years, $11 million with a PO Now, he brings that impressive skill set to the Clippers. Beal managed 17 points on 38.6% from deep last season in 53 games. He’s taking all of that into a typical rookie-to-sophomore leap, and into the role of starting shooting guard. With Norman Powell traded, he’s primed to step into that role.
Throughout his career, Beal has averaged 21.5 points, 4.3 assists, and 4.1 rebounds per game, demonstrating his capability as a dynamic scorer and playmaker. His success playing alongside John Wall in Washington showcases his ability to thrive in a team-oriented system and contributes to the excitement surrounding his arrival in Los Angeles.
Their recent signings suggest Clippers management is on the offensive. They’re reportedly weighing welcoming back their former veteran point guard Chris Paul, now a free agent, to the fold. Lawrence Frank, president of basketball operations for the Clippers, had praised Paul’s skills to the sky.
“What I’d say about Chris is he’s a great player. He’s a great Clipper. He obviously possesses some of the qualities we are looking for. And, of course, we’re strongly, strongly considering him.” – Lawrence Frank
Frank emphasized that with a healthy Kawhi Leonard back on the court, the organization feels more optimistic about their position this season.
“With a healthy Kawhi to start the season, we felt like we were in a better place,” – Frank
He was sure to point out that Leonard is prepared physically, but there’s a maturation process too. He’s entering the offseason in a positive mental space and avoided going under the knife.
“He’s doing great. He’s healthy, which it’s not just a physical thing. It’s also a mental, emotional thing to go into an offseason without having surgery,” – Frank
Frank pointed out Leonard’s intense training routine as he preps for an electrifying season up front.
“So, he feels great, he’s been working extremely hard. He has some trips lined up. He’ll be going to Africa at the end of the month. He continues to work. We’ll be sending a coach with him. He’s super excited about the roster, about the season, and that he’s going to be able to begin a training camp,” – Frank
The Clippers are strategically shaping their roster while maintaining financial flexibility.
“We just wanted to put together the best roster we could while preserving the financial flexibility,” – Frank
As they head into the future, the Clippers are laser focused on their stated belief that this is their season to cash in an NBA championship. With key players committing to the team and a healthy Kawhi Leonard returning, expectations are high for this revamped roster.
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