2008 Clippers Summer Forecast
Brand to Test the Free Agent Waters
The Los Angeles Clippers are crossing its fingers that star Forward Elton Brand returns. He is able to opt out of his contract this summer, and despite missing most of the 2007-2008 season to injury, it's certain that he'll have a lot of suitors. The silver lining of Brand's injury was that it allowed Center Chris Kaman to have a breakout season. Kaman averaged career highs across the board: 15.7 ppg, 12.7 rbpg and 2.8 bspg. Though LA did plummet to a 23-59 record, Kaman's emergence and other bright spots in the lineup make for an interesting off season for the Clippers. A solid rookie campaign by first round draft pick Al Thornton (12.7 ppg, 4.5 rbpg) means that Corey Maggette - who's been involved in trade rumors for the past few seasons - is more expendable and likely shopped around as trade bait.
It's going to be an important summer for Point Guard Shaun Livingston. At 6-7, Livingston is a unique talent. Able to handle and distribute the all effectively, Livingston may be the hope to the Clippers' future. However, a career threatening injury has kept him out of action since the 2006-2007 season. He hopes to climb back and get back to form.
Free Agent Watch
The Clippers' biggest challenge will be re-signing Brand. He's the biggest name in the free agent market and losing him would be a severe blow to the team. Otherwise, if they sign anyone else, it will likely be a veteran back up point guard or some perimeter help.
2008 NBA Draft
LA has some options with the seventh overall pick. They may try to trade up to nab a more fitting player. If they keep the pick, they'll likely look for perimeter help either at the point guard spot or the two guard spot. Eric Gordon, who some think is a bigger, stronger version of Ben Gordon, seems like a good fit. They also may consider drafting a power forward as insurance in case they can't re-sign Brand.
Trade Opportunities
Maggette will likely be the Clippers' biggest chip to trade. Expect them to try to add depth inside, with Kaman somewhat injury prone and Brand possibly leaving town. They also need to beef up their exterior. Sam Cassell has moved to greener pastures (quite literally), and who knows what kind of shape Livingston's going to be in. Moreover, Cuttino Mobley's getting older.
It's likely that next season could be another developing year for LA, which may mean that Brand is on his way out. That being said, they do have some positive pieces in place to be successful, but it seems like the holes in the back court and the youth may mean another lottery appearance in 2009.
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