4. Buddy Hield To LA Clippers

The Sacramento Kings were close to trading Buddy Hield to the Los Angeles Lakers before the 2021 NBA Draft. The framework of a deal was in place, as Los Angeles was sending Kyle Kuzma, Montrezl Harrell and the No. 22 pick to Sacramento in exchange for Hield.

At the last minute, Los Angeles pivoted. They decided to instead send that package, in addition to Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, to the Washington Wizards for Russell Westbrook.

There is no way that the Kings can bring Hield back knowing he was essentially out the door once already. So, the other Lakers co-tenants, the Los Angeles Clippers, will swoop in and make a deal for the sharpshooter.

The Clippers are going to need to add some scoring this offseason. While Kawhi Leonard is largely expected to re-sign with the team after opting out, he is likely not going to play during the 2021-22 season. Leonard was injured during the team’s second-round series against the Utah Jazz and underwent surgery recently to fix it.

READ MORE: Predictions for NBA Trade Rumors: Simmons, Lillard, Hield, Ingles, Siakam

Hield would give the Clippers a scoring threat alongside Paul George, who carried the team following Leonard’s injury. His 3-point shooting would fit in perfectly and his improving playmaking would be a bonus for the offense, taking even more pressure off of George.

Los Angeles has yet to make any impact moves this offseason. They have been linked to a few players, but only Nicolas Batum has been re-signed.