The Los Angeles Clippers have quietly turned into one of the NBA’s scariest teams ever since they acquired James Harden from the Philadelphia 76ers.
Despite some initial issues, Harden quickly found his footing in L.A. and is now playing some of his best basketball in a long time.
Because of that, Los Angeles is looking to be a “seller” ahead of the NBA Trade Deadline, not a buyer.
According to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, the Clippers have interest in shipping out two players ahead of the 2024 NBA Trade Deadline.
“Amid the hot streak, the Clippers are gauging the trade market on Bones Hyland and PJ Tucker,” he wrote.
Hyland is only 23 years old, so it is interesting that L.A. is already ready to part ways with him. That said, given the current roster composition and the organization’s win-now ethos, it isn’t particularly hard to see why he doesn’t fit in with their short-term plans.
“Hyland, a two-time Rising Stars participant, and former All-Rookie selection, began the year as a rotation player for the Clippers but has since had a minimal role with the Clippers following the acquisition of James Harden,” Scotto added.
“With Hyland still signed on his rookie contract before restricted free agency in the summer of 2025, he’s a potential worthwhile flier for a rival team seeking backcourt help.”
Tucker’s inclusion in the trade speculation is a bit less surprising. He has been an awful fit with the Clippers thus far and hasn’t played since Nov. 27. In addition, he has expressed frustration with the organization on multiple occasions.
“Should the Clippers fail to find a suitable trade partner, Tucker is not expected to discuss a buyout, league sources told HoopsHype. The veteran forward has an $11.54 million player option for next season,” Scotto added.
There figure to be some big trades on the horizon over the next few days, but the Clippers likely won’t be a part of them.
LSU Star Hailey Van Lith’s Latest Wild Video Causes A Stir: https://t.co/vQlrbcQdZE
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Aside from possibly shipping out Hyland and/or Tucker, the front office is probably going to be quiet ahead of the 2024 NBA Trade Deadline.
Will the Clippers be able to finally get the money of their back and win a championship in 2024? Time will tell.
Related: Adrian Wojnarowski’s Latest Update On Lakers’ Trade Deadline Plans
A graduate from the University of Texas, Anthony Amador has been credentialed to cover the Houston Texans, Dallas Cowboys, San Antonio Spurs, Dallas Mavericks and high school games all over the Lone Star State. Currently, his primary beats are the NBA, MLB, NFL and UFC.