The NBA offseason could become even more interesting. This summer features several players whose free agency decision could impact the league, such as Kevin Durant, Kawhi Leonard and Kyrie Irving, who have player options and can opt out of their current deals. Other players such as Kemba Walker, Klay Thompson and Nikola Vucevic are unrestricted free agents. Each player has the opportunity to leave their current team and start a new chapter elsewhere.
The New York Knicks could pursue Durant and Irving. The two stars could opt out of their current deals and become unrestricted free agents. Then, they could form the NBA’s newest duo.
The Knicks also have the potential to receive the first pick. Their 2019 draft pick could be paired with the two established vets and help the Knicks become a playoff bound team. If this happens the Knicks become a legit contender and an improved team.
The Knicks could be on the verge of a huge offseason, but they are not the only ones. The Los Angeles Clippers are making a strong case. With a solid regular season and an impressive playoffs, the Clippers could attract some top free agents.
In the regular season, the Clippers had a record of 48-34, which was six more wins than their previous season. The Clippers barely missed the playoffs ranked 10th in the Western Conference last season.
This year, the Clippers made the playoffs by becoming the eighth seed. They matched up with the first seed Golden State Warriors and exceeded their expectations. They won a few games including two wins on the road. The Clippers won Game 2 in a 135-131 game and Game 5 in a 129-121 game. The eighth-seeded Clippers competed with the defending champions and made a name for themselves.
The Clippers’ roster includes players such as two-time Sixth Man of the Year Lou Williams, Danilo Gallinari and Montrezl Harrell. They also have rookie guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and defensive specialist Patrick Beverley. The Clippers have an established core and supporting cast for a star caliber player. With the right player(s), the Clippers could become a top Western Conference team.
The Clippers will have a busy offseason (Image Courtesy of Jae C. Hong/AP)
The Clippers have a legitimate chance at signing a max player. They currently have enough salary-cap room to sign one max free agent. They also have six players under a team option. This means the Clippers can keep the rights of the player for another season or, they can renounce their rights and the player(s) become free agents. With the right moves, the Clippers could sign a max player and bring in another player.
One of the players tied to the Clippers is Kawhi Leonard. Leonard currently plays for the Toronto Raptors, who start their semifinals series against the Sixers today. As well as the Raptors are playing, there is a chance Leonard goes to the Clippers. The California native has been the subject of rumors regarding the Clippers. If Leonard declines his player option, the move could become a reality.
This year’s offseason could be interesting. The free agency period could change the dynamic of the NBA. The Clippers’ performance in the playoffs was impressive and could catch the eye of the upcoming free agents. Then, the Clippers can go to the next level.
In this offseason, there are several teams who will be active. The L.A Clippers will be one of them.
Featured image courtesy of Kelly L. Cox/USA Today
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