#4 Los Angeles Clippers
The Lakers are definitely in better shape to contend for a title than their same arena rivals in the Los Angeles Clippers, but do not forget that the Clippers are coming off their first ever appearance in the Western Conference Finals. They even made the WCF without Kawhi Leonard on the court and being healthy!
Say what you want about the Clippers, but they are truly a contending team in the Western Conference and they proved that last season. Fully-healthy, this team can contend for a title, but Kawhi Leonard is going to be out to begin the season as he recovers from a partially torn ACL.
With Leonard out, minutes are open for someone to step into a bigger role, which is why the Clippers could be interested in bringing in a veteran like Paul Millsap. They do not have an open roster spot right now, but they could easily waive Yogi Ferrell to bring in the veteran forward.
Leonard being out means Marcus Morris Sr. and Nicolas Batum will play more minutes on the wing, making them a smaller team on the interior and in their frontcourt.
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Serge Ibaka only played in 41 games last season due to back issues and the Clippers could really use another big body in their frontcourt who can stretch the court. Paul Millsap actually fits in quite nicely with the Clippers’ system, which is why they are definitely an intriguing option for him to sign with.
