Why the Trade Benefits the Los Angeles Clippers
If the Los Angeles Clippers had to choose between Paul George and Kawhi Leonard, the decision is simple. Leonard is an all-world player and one that has proven he can lead a team to a championship. The combination of the two has not worked because both players need to be the No. 1 option.
This trade would send George away and get Leonard a star teammate who knows how to play second-fiddle. LaVine was the No. 2 option for years with the Minnesota Timberwolves. His scoring numbers have gone up significantly in Chicago because they needed him to score at a high rate.
The Clippers would not need Zach LaVine to be one of the NBA’s leading scorers. He would know how to act as the second-option to Leonard but could also provide a ramped up scoring volume when needed.
The Clippers need draft picks back. They gave up a ton of first-round picks for George and could use him to get some back. They would be able to move all the way up to No. 4 in this draft while adding two future first-rounders. For Los Angeles, this seems like a no-brainer.
