The LA Clippers are not done making signings this offseason after landing Bradley Beal, but Chris Paul may have to fight for a spot.
The LA Clippers have done a really good job this offseason when it comes to building their new roster. After a lackluster first-round exit, the Clippers knew they had to address their team’s weaknesses.
After the Clippers re-signed James Harden to a long-term extension, the front office got to work on bringing in some new talent.
The Clippers signed Brook Lopez in free agency, adding to their center depth behind Ivica Zubac for the coming year.
But the big move was the Clippers trading Norman Powell to land John Collins in a three-team deal. After this trade, they had to address their weakness at the shooting guard spot.
And that’s exactly what they did, as the Clippers signed Bradley Beal to an $11 million deal. However, that isn’t all they plan on doing in the weeks to come.
Shams Charania appeared on ESPN to discuss the ramifications of the LA Clippers signing Bradley Beal in free agency.
He revealed that the Clippers are interested in Chris Paul, along with some other point and combo guards to fill up their depth chart in the weeks to come.
“The one need for the Clippers right now is the point guard position, a reserve guard coming off the bench. I’m told they have Chris Paul on their radar among some other free-agent guards as well.
“I expect the Clippers to take a patient approach. I don’t expect them to make any immediate decisions yet. But that reserve point guard spot is one that they’re going to look to fill.
“This is a team that has really started to load up here, and they’ve been able to keep flexibility long-term as well, alongside James Harden, Kawhi Leonard, and now Bradley Beal in the mix as well.”
However, Chris Paul does face competition. Brett Siegel of Clutch Points revealed that Malcolm Brogdon is also on the Clippers’ radar. But the team only plans on signing one of the guards.
“In addition to Chris Paul, who is expected to sign with LA, the Clippers also have a strong interest in Malcolm Brogdon, sources told Clutch Points.”
“The team won’t be signing both Paul and Brogdon. Right now, the sense is that Brogdon would be the Clippers’ top choice for their backup point guard spot if Chris Paul shocks everyone and goes elsewhere.”
Paul has an advantage over Brogdon because of his prior stint with the Clippers. Many believe the legendary point guard had his best years with the team.
The Clippers fanbase respects Paul a lot. But at nearly 40 years of age, is Paul going to be a solid bench contributor on a contending team?
His performances with the San Antonio Spurs last season showed that Paul still has a lot left in the tank, but in limited bursts. It will be a tough decision for the Clippers’ front office.