Clippers await Kawhi Leonard’s decision on contract option
Several players on the Clippers are facing free agency, which could result in a roster overhaul for the 2021-22 season.
LOS ANGELES (AP) — The Los Angeles Clippers’ season began in an empty arena with cardboard cutouts, COVID-19 tests, and protocols for everything. It ended with the team reaching the Western Conference finals for the first time in franchise history, even without injured superstar Kawhi Leonard.
On Wednesday night, Leonard, donning a mask, observed from the bench as the Clippers succumbed to the Phoenix Suns in six games.
“Center Ivica Zubac, on Thursday, expressed his appreciation for his team, stating, “Man, we just had a group of guys that loved playing with each other. Everyone was on the same page.”
The Clippers managed to triumph over Luka Doncic’s Dallas Mavericks and Donovan Mitchell’s Utah Jazz, despite having 0-2 deficits in the first two rounds. However, Leonard suffered a right knee sprain in the fourth game against the Jazz, which prevented him from playing further.
Zubac sustained a knee injury, causing him to miss the final two games against the Suns. The Clippers were initially behind in the series 0-2 and 1-3 against the Suns, but managed to narrow down the gap to 3-2 before finally losing steam.
Despite his injuries, Paul George managed to keep the team momentum going, scoring an impressive 41 points, his career best in playoffs, during a crucial elimination game against the Suns. He averaged close to 41 minutes per game, consistently scoring 20 points or more in all 19 playoff games. This feat places him among only four NBA players who have ever achieved such a record.
“Everything was squeezed out from us,” said George, “and I believed that we became stronger and improved as the season progressed.”
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The Clippers are well-equipped to make a prolonged playoff run next year. Their primary focus, however, lies with Leonard.
He possesses a player option valued at $36 million for the upcoming season. Should he refuse the option, he will turn into an unrestricted free agent, potentially signing a contract that pays him a higher annual salary. In 2019, Leonard persuaded George to join the Clippers so they could team up and remain near their hometowns in Southern California.
“Kawhi and I have both grown together. We take pleasure in being teammates and recognize our potential,” said George. “By signing my contract, I made a commitment to show that I’m in for the long haul and dedicated to this team. I hope that this influences anyone’s decision.”
Serge Ibaka, who underwent early season-ending back surgery, also holds a player option valued at $9.7 million.
Reggie Jackson, Nicolas Batum, DeMarcus Cousins, and Patrick Patterson will all be unrestricted free agents, while Amir Coffey will be the only restricted free agent on the team.
Jackson excelled in the playoffs, averaging 17.8 points in 17 of the 19 postseason games he started and shooting 41% from the 3-point range. This performance should pave the way for a more lucrative contract. It’s now up to the Clippers to determine whether they’re prepared to increase their expenditure to keep the guard.
“Predicting the future is beyond my capabilities. I’m clueless about what’s in store,” Jackson conveyed, “but this city, this organization, and these fans are extraordinary. Being a Clipper will always be part of my identity. I’m grateful for this chance.”
George, a longtime friend of Jackson, stated, “I’m definitely going to give my best effort to recruit.”
The former All-Star, Cousins, performed exceptionally in the last two games, scoring 27 points in just 25 minutes as a replacement for Zubac. This comes after his release from Houston in February, after which he signed two 10-day contracts with the Clippers and participated in 16 regular-season games. He played five out of his seven playoff games against the Suns.
In the last game, despite having a sore knee, Marcus Morris scored 26 points leading the Clippers and played 42 minutes – one minute more than George.
“Morris said, “We are aware of our capabilities. I am eager to find out what the future brings.”
The Clippers didn’t depart without causing some drama.
Patrick Beverley was ejected for shoving Chris Paul, a former Clipper, in the back and causing him to fall during the fourth quarter.
“Apologies for letting my emotions take over last night, Paul,” Beverley tweeted on Thursday. “My misstep was unintentional towards you. Congratulations on reaching the Finals. Wishing you all the best.”
