But that has not stopped the Clippers from staying competitive enough to remain in the Western Conference’s playoff picture.
The Clippers acquired Norman Powell and Robert Covington from the Portland Trail Blazers on Friday in exchange for Eric Bledsoe, Justise Winslow, Keon Johnson and the Detroit Pistons’ 2025 second-round pick.
Though Ballmer has never put a price limit on such spending, the Clippers also want to maintain their flexibility.
Just before the Clippers squeaked out a win over the Lakers on Thursday, Clippers coach Ty Lue maintained, “I love our team and how we’re constructed now.” And why wouldn’t he? The Clippers moved to eighth place in the Western Conference despite missing Leonard for the entire season while recovering from off-season surgery to treat a partial tear in his right ACL injury.
The Clippers acquired two players in Powell and Covington that can provide wing depth as both outside shooters and perimeter defenders.
Powell is nearing the first year of a five-year, $90 million deal, so that gives the Clippers both security in keeping a dependable player entering his prime and an additional asset in future deals.
Lue revealed after Thursday’s game against the Lakers that “we know Kawhi is probably not going to come back.” But there is more nuance for reasons beyond Lue’s concession that “I’m not a doctor.” Internally, the Clippers are pleased with Leonard’s progress and have trust in how he has rehabbed his right knee after having surgery on July 13.
Though those results will offer more insight on George’s recovery, the Clippers have maintained optimism that George will return in time to help the Clippers make a playoff push.
But Cronin stressed, “I don’t think we have the appetite to tear it all the way down.” It remains to be seen whether Cronin will change his mind or if he still thinks he can add pieces around Damian Lillard, C.J.
Though the Clippers won’t welcome their two star players until they are fully healthy, they feel optimistic they can contend for an NBA title with a full roster regardless of their seed.
But expect the Clippers to try to flip expiring contracts in exchange for draft picks and dependable talent that have long-term upside and flexibility with their roles.
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