After almost making it to the NBA Finals last season, it was a bit of a down year for the LA Clippers. Between Kawhi Leonard being sidelined and Paul George missing extensive time, they lacked the firepower to make any noise in a wide-open Western Conference.
Despite the injuries, the Clippers still sniffed the postseason. They made an appearance in the play-in tournament but were bounced by the Minnesota Timberwolves.
With the expectation that their All-Stars will be ready for next season, LA is ready to get back in the title picture. While their supporting cast is stacked at the moment, a recent article from Bleacher Report suggests a scenario where they sacrifice depth to form the league’s newest big three.
When picking “surprise” landing spots for some impending free agents this summer, the Clippers were cited as a destination for All-Star guard Kyrie Irving. Based on his minimal availability this season, some wonder if Brooklyn will be willing to hand him a large contract this summer.
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In this scenario, Irving joins Kawhi Leonard and Paul George via a sign-and-trade. In return, the Brooklyn Nets acquire depth pieces such as Reggie Jackson, Luke Kennard, and Norman Powell.
If the Clippers really wanted to push all-in, this would be the move. They already have a top-tier wing duo, and adding Irving gives them one of the NBA’s best scoring guards. A trio of this magnitude would be a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses.
From the Brooklyn Nets’ perspective, if they wanted to part ways with Irving, this is an interesting return for him. Reggie Jackson rejuvenated his career with the LA Clippers, and Norman Powell is a capable secondary ballhandler/shot-creator. Recouping some depth makes Brooklyn a fascinating team as they build around their new All-Star duo of Kevin Durant and Ben Simmons.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Robert Covington, Clippers Agree To Contract Extension
Given the bond Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving share off the court, it seems unlikely he signs anywhere but Brooklyn. That being said, if they did want to shake things up, this hypothetical trade would be worth pursuing.
