The Clippers have a lot to learn from this Offseason!

The Los Angeles Clippers had a dramatic summer, parting ways with All-Star Paul George and retaining Kawhi Leonard and James Harden. While the Minnesota Timberwolves, Denver Nuggets, and Oklahoma City Thunder have dominated Western Conference headlines, the Clippers have flown under the radar. Their path to an NBA championship will involve addressing their top five mistakes from the offseason. With a revamped roster and high expectations, the Clippers aim to overcome these challenges and prove their championship potential, despite the increased focus on their Western rivals.

Letting Paul George Leave Without A Sign-And-Trade

Allowing Paul George to leave in free agency without securing a sign-and-trade deal was a critical mistake for the Clippers. George, who signed a four-year, $212 million contract with the Philadelphia 76ers, was a key player alongside Kawhi Leonard and James Harden. His departure not only dissolved the Clippers' Big Three but also left them with no assets in return, weakening their roster and future prospects. With George averaging 22.6 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game last season, his two-way impact was significant. The lack of compensation is a strategic blunder that could hinder the Clippers' championship aspirations.

Fail To Replace Paul George With Klay Thompson

The Clippers missed a key opportunity by not pursuing Klay Thompson aggressively. Thompson, who signed a three-year, $50 million deal with the Dallas Mavericks, would have been an ideal fit for the Clippers, filling the void left by Paul George. Known for his elite shooting and championship experience, Thompson averaged 17.9 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game last season while shooting 38.7% from three. His presence would have bolstered the Clippers' offence and defence, providing floor spacing and perimeter defence. By not securing Thompson, the Clippers missed a chance to enhance their championship aspirations with a proven winner.

Losing DeMar DeRozan 

The Clippers erred by not acquiring DeMar DeRozan, who signed a three-year, $77 million deal with the Sacramento Kings. DeRozan, known for his mid-range proficiency and veteran leadership, would have been a valuable addition alongside Leonard and Harden, maintaining a strong Big Three despite Paul George's departure. Averaging 24.0 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game last season, DeRozan's scoring and playmaking could have bolstered the Clippers' offence and kept their championship hopes alive. His playoff experience and leadership would have provided stability and mentorship, essential for a deep postseason run. By missing out on DeRozan, the Clippers lost a crucial asset.

Delaying Decision On James Harden’s Future

The Clippers face instability due to the uncertainty around James Harden’s future. Harden, a key part of their Big Three, has yet to re-sign, jeopardising the team’s stability. With Leonard under contract until 2026-27, losing another All-Star would be detrimental. Harden averaged 16.6 points, 8.5 assists, and 5.1 rebounds last season, contributing significantly to the Clippers' offence. His potential departure could lead to a major drop in offensive production and disrupt the team’s core identity. The Clippers should have proactively secured Harden with a team-friendly deal to maintain stability and appeal to future stars, avoiding a critical setback.

Not getting a better Centre

While Ivica Zubac is a solid starting centre, the Clippers missed an opportunity to add a star-calibre big man like Nikola Vucevic. Vucevic, with his scoring and rebounding power, could have significantly boosted the Clippers' frontcourt. Alternatively, Jonas Valanciunas, who signed a three-year, $30 million deal with the Wizards, would have added valuable depth and defensive capabilities. Zubac averaged 11.7 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks last season, but lacking a versatile centre like Vucevic, who averaged 18.0 points and 10.5 rebounds, could limit their competitiveness. With Zubac’s contract expiring after 2024-25, the need for a reliable backup or replacement is crucial.

Despite making such mistakes, the Clippers will remain one of the major contenders in the West. Paul George’s absence will leave a vacuum but that enables James Harden a more prominent role than can the Clips make it to the playoffs?