The Los Angeles Clippers are one of the favorites but face tough competition when the NBA bubble games kick off next month. It will be more of warm-up matches for the Clippers and other teams safely into the playoffs. If there is one goal they can aim for, it would be to take the number one spot from the Los Angeles Lakers. But with only 8 games to be played, that may be a tough task.
Rather than eye the best record in the Western Conference, the Clippers need to strengthen their hold at the second spot. The Denver Nuggets and the Utah Jazz are not that far behind them, meaning they cannot take it easy. They need to stay sharp all the way to the NBA playoffs if they are to achieve their goal of winning the NBA title.
With Kawhi Leonard and Paul George leading the way, there is no question that the Clippers have a good chance of making it all the way. But what if the boys of coach Doc Rivers fall short? What lies ahead for the Clips heading into next season? For sure, there will be some players exiting and three names come to mind. They are Marcus Morris, Lou Williams and Montrezl Harrell. Morris is set to become a free agent after this season while Harrell will also hit free agency. Williams has one year left in his contract but there is a chance he may be traded for someone younger.
As previously reported by The Athletic, there seem to be some internal issues hounding the Clippers camp. Some revolved around Leonard, the obvious new star of the Clippers. But beyond that, the three names mentioned carry hefty paychecks that the Clips may not be able to afford by next season. Hence all may end up with new teams - especially if the Clippers fail to win it all this year.
Morris is expected to hit free agency anew and is expected to get his share of suitors. But considering the fickle-mindedness when it comes to agreeing to deals, most clubs will want a written commitment before making any announcement.
For Williams, an exit is imminent. Aside from the fact that he will be turning 34 in October, he is only effective if the ball starts in his hands. Though he has shown what he can do, this is something that may not work for Rivers. Leonard and George are the main cogs, meaning Williams should be more of the guy waiting to shoot once the ball gets to him.
Harrell has long been rumored to move out. He has done a marvelous job this season holding his own in the middle. But the Clips are likely to find a legitimate big man to take the center slot. Harrell is due for a big pay raise, something the Clippers may not be able to give due to huge investments on their star players.
