The Los Angeles Clippers are not planning to offload players as the February 5 trade deadline approaches. This information comes from sources reported by Sam Amick of The Athletic. Despite a rocky start this season with a 6-21 record, the team’s recent five-game winning streak has raised optimism within the organization.
Clippers’ Position Before the Trade Deadline
The Clippers find themselves 2.5 games away from the Western Conference’s final play-in spot. Their upcoming matchup with the Utah Jazz is crucial for maintaining momentum. Concerns regarding key players, specifically Kawhi Leonard and James Harden, have surfaced, with both being potential trade candidates.
Trade Candidates and Contract Details
- Kawhi Leonard: Currently in the final season of a three-year, $149.5 million contract. He will become an unrestricted free agent in 2027.
- James Harden: Holds a $42.3 million player option for the next season. Harden’s Bird rights permit him to veto trades this season.
While the Clippers may explore upgrade opportunities, they are also focused on maintaining salary-cap flexibility for the next summer. This strategic approach could influence their decisions leading up to the trade deadline.
Potential Trade Assets
Several veterans on the team are on expiring contracts and may serve as trade assets:
- John Collins
- Bogdan Bogdanović
- Brook Lopez
- Nicolas Batum
While Collins, Bogdanović, Lopez, and Batum could be utilized to balance the salary for potential star-level acquisitions, they also have team options for the 2026-27 season that can factor into trade discussions.
Future Draft Picks
As part of the trade that sent Paul George to the Clippers, Oklahoma City Thunder will receive the Clippers’ unprotected first-round pick in 2026. This detail adds another layer to the strategic calculations the Clippers must undertake as they approach the trade deadline.
In conclusion, the Los Angeles Clippers are taking a proactive stance as they approach the trade deadline. Significant decisions are on the horizon, which may shape the team’s future as they balance competitive aspirations with long-term goals.
