Tobias Harris, the Los Angeles Clippers star, is having one of the best seasons in his career. It is not surprising then that Harris is drawing a lot of attention from other NBA teams as the trade deadline looms.
Harris, the Charlotte Bobcats' 19th overall pick in 2011, is averaging 20.8 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 2.7 assists in 53 games this season. Harris is shooting 49.8-percent from the field, 42.6-percent from the three-point area, and 87.8-percent from the free-throw line. Any team looking to add a bonafide scorer and rebounder would definitely love to add the 6'9" power forward from the Clippers.
ESPN verified that other NBA teams have inquired about the 26-year-old Harris. However, according to the report, the Los Angeles Clippers has "no inclination to deal him." The report further implies that the Clippers would "happily re-sign" Harris in "July goes a certain way" for the Clippers.
That being said, Harris will become an unrestricted free agent in the offseason. And if this trade deadline is of any indication, then the Tennessee product would have more teams coming to his doorsteps this summer.
Back in October, Yahoo Sports reported that the Minnesota Timberwolves is interested in acquiring Tobias Harris. The Los Angeles Clippers and the Minnesota Timberwolves have engaged in trade discussions that centered around Jimmy Butler. But the Clippers didn't want any trade package to include Harris, and the Wolves eventually traded the All-Star forward to the Philadelphia 76ers.
Utah Jazz is another team that is interested in acquiring Harris. David Locke, the radio voice of the Utah Jazz reported that Tobias Harris has "expressed interest" in joining the Jazz early in the offseason last year.
Needless to say, however, that it didn't pan out the way the Jazz planned. Harris is reportedly still in the Jazz radar, but with the Clippers standing firm that they are not interested in parting ways with the power forward, the Jazz would probably make a play for Harris this coming offseason.
Tobias Harris is a versatile offensive threat. An above-average defender and rebounder, Harris is a prototype stretch-four who can shoot from the outside and pound it inside.
There is no denying that Harris is performing at an All-Star level this season. And while he was snubbed for the mid-season extravaganza, the fact remains that Harris has reached the upper echelon of superstardom.
If Harris finishes the season strong, he can sign a 4-year max or near max contract around $140 million. And NBA teams will surely be gunning for Harris. For that tag price, it would seem a small price to pay for a player of Tobias Harris' caliber.
