The Los Angeles Clippers have a busy week ahead. The NBA Draft is Tuesday night in Brooklyn, and they’re sitting on the No. 5 overall pick — a nice piece of business from last year’s Ivica Zubac trade with Indiana. But the real action might come after the draft.
According to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, the Clippers are expected to make a run at DeMar DeRozan once the Kings cut him loose. Sacramento is reportedly planning to waive-and-stretch the veteran forward this summer, barring some unexpected trade. And if that happens, L.A. is ready to pounce.
DeRozan is a California kid and has been linked to both the Clippers and the Lakers at various points in his career. He’s not the same guy who averaged 27 points a night for the Raptors, but he’s still a reliable scorer. He can create his own shot when the offense stalls, and he’s quietly improved his three-point range over the last few seasons.
In L.A., DeRozan would slot in as a secondary playmaker alongside Kawhi Leonard and Darius Garland. He wouldn’t have to carry the load, which is probably ideal at this stage. And with the Clippers likely offering a team-friendly deal, the financials could work out nicely.
Rumors have swirled for years about DeRozan ending up back in Southern California. This time it actually might happen. Free agency opens June 30, so we’ll know soon enough.
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