The Los Angeles Clippers were relatively quiet at the NBA Trade Deadline. They made some minor moves and cleared some cap space for the future, but did not make any earth-shattering trades.
They have a playoff-caliber roster as it is currently constructed, but is it enough to compete for an NBA title this year?
Per Shams Charania of ESPN, the Clippers just signed a player who is of the low-risk high-reward variation.
Ben Simmons To Sign With Los Angeles Clippers
Former number one overall pick and 3-time All-Star Ben Simmons is signing with the LA Clippers.
Just yesterday, Simmons agreed to a buyout of his contract by the Brooklyn Nets.
Simmons has been a polarizing player since being drafted first overall in 2016. After being drafted by the 76ers, he won Rookie of the Year, was a 3-time All-Star from 2019-2021, and has made a name for himself defensively being a two-time All-NBA Defensive team in 2020 and 2021.
- Ben Simmons Career Stats: 13.6 PPG, 7.6 REB, 7.4 AST
However, things ended poorly with the 76ers and he was traded to the Brooklyn Nets in 2022. His time with the Nets has been plagued with injuries and inconsistent play.
Also Read: Will Moves Made At NBA Trade Deadline Have Positive Impact On Los Angeles Clippers?
While this move doesn’t instantly make the Clippers title contenders, it does have the potential to be a really underrated move. Pairing Simmons with Kawhi Leonard creates one of the top defensive frontcourts (can also play guard) in the league.