The Los Angeles Clippers haven’t been caught up in the hottest NBA trade rumors, but with the deadline (Feb. 8th) quickly approaching and the team sitting at 20-17, seventh in the Western Conference, an injection of talent could be what this team needs to get into serious title contention.
In their latest “1 Trade Every NBA Team Should Propose Right Now” Bleacher Report thinks the trade to do that would be for New Orleans Pelicans small forward Brandon Ingram. Here is Greg Swartz’s trade proposal.
Los Angeles Clippers Trade Proposal
LA Receives: Ingram
New Orleans Pelicans Receive: G/F Terrance Mann, SF Derrick Jones Jr., F/C P.J. Tucker, 2031 second-round pick
“At 20-17, the Clippers are still hovering in the West play-in picture but should add another scoring threat to help improve a 23rd-ranked offense,” Swartz writes. “If healthy, a roster with Kawhi Leonard, Ingram, James Harden, Norman Powell, Ivica Zubac, and others suddenly looks dangerous, especially come playoff time. Ingram would help take playmaking pressure off of Harden, helping the veteran guard to improve his own scoring efficiency (career-low 47.7 effective field goal percentage).”
Unlike some NBA trade rumors, this trade would be feasible as it benefits both side’s short-term goals. According to league sources, the Pelicans are aiming to avoid exceeding the luxury tax threshold. To achieve this goal, the team is likely to explore potential trade options before the deadline.
Although it may not result in a long-term partnership. According to HoopsHype, Ingram is seeking a contract that approaches the maximum allowable salary in free agency.
If Ingram did join the Clippers, his 22.2 points would be good for second-best behind just Powell. His 5.2 assists per game would be second to just Harden and his 5.6 rebounds would be fifth best on the team.
The trade would also alleviate the impact of a hefty veteran contract. The trade options are likely to include PJ Tucker’s contract expiring at $11.54 million. While Tucker could be utilized as a valuable salary filler in potential trade scenarios, some teams are closely monitoring the possibility of him reaching the buyout market in the coming weeks.