Los Angeles Clippers Makes A Surprising, Future Focused Move Ahead Of NBA Trade Deadline

The Atlanta Hawks have agreed to trade guard Bogdan Bogdanovic to the Los Angeles Clippers in exchange for Terance Mann, Bones Hyland, and three second-round draft picks, as reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania.

In addition to acquiring Bogdanovic, the Clippers will receive Minnesota’s 2025 second-round pick, their own 2027 second-round pick, and a protected 2026 second-round pick from the Memphis Grizzlies, as reported by The Athletic’s Law Murray.

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The trade agreement includes several key details regarding the second-round draft picks. The Grizzlies’ 2026 second-round pick will be conveyed to the Clippers only if it falls between the 31st and 42nd overall selections. Additionally, the 2027 second-round pick sent from the Clippers to the Hawks is the same pick that was originally acquired by the Rockets in the 2023 five-team trade that ultimately resulted in Dillon Brooks joining the Houston Rockets.

Surprising Trade At NBA Trade Deadline

NBA: Los Angeles Clippers at Charlotte Hornets
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This trade also comes as a surprising development, considering Terance Mann recently agreed to a three-year, $47 million contract extension with the Clippers this past summer. Mann has played all six years of his NBA career with the Clippers, averaging 8 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 1.9 assists on 49.8 percent shooting from the field and 37.1 percent from three.

The trade of Bogdan Bogdanovic to the Clippers, while surprising in its timing, was not entirely unexpected.

In the weeks leading up to the NBA trade deadline, Bogdanovic’s name had been circulating in trade rumors, including speculation involving a potential deal for Brandon Ingram.

This season, Bogdanovic has experienced a slight dip in his three-point shooting percentage, currently shooting 30.1% from beyond the arc compared to his career average of 38.0%. Despite this dip, the Clippers are optimistic that the veteran sharpshooter can regain his form and provide a significant offensive boost to their playoff push.

Los Angeles Clippers Clear Room For Future

The acquisition of Bogdanovic serves multiple strategic objectives for the Los Angeles Clippers.

Firstly, the trade addresses the team’s roster flexibility. The Clippers create additional roster space by moving two players (Terance Mann and Bones Hyland) for one. This increased flexibility allows the team to explore potential opportunities in the buyout market or make other roster adjustments as needed.

Secondly, the trade provides some financial flexibility. By moving Terance Mann, whose contract is guaranteed through the 2027-28 season, the Clippers shed some future salary obligations. While Bogdanovic’s contract includes a player option for the 2026-27 season, his current salary for the 2024-25 season ($16.02 million) is more manageable compared to Mann’s long-term contract.

These strategic considerations underscore the multifaceted nature of the trade and its potential impact on the Clippers’ long-term financial health and roster flexibility.

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