2. Los Angeles Clippers
UPDATE: ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski has reported that DeAndre Jordan will opt out and become and unrestricted free agent, making it more unlikely he returns to the Clippers.
The Clippers made news in January when they traded franchise star Blake Griffin to the Detroit Pistons. They had signed Griffin to a long-term contract last summer, then surprised the NBA with the trade.
The Clippers of 2018-19 are a far cry from the talented teams that Jordan had become accustomed to playing with. Instead of Chris Paul, you’ve got Patrick Beverley. Blake Griffin has been replaced with Tobias Harris. Had Jordan decided to opt in, he would’ve entered next season for the first time in his career without the assistance of a superstar player.
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To make matters worse, Los Angeles doesn’t have the cap space to pursue big-name free agents. This roster, as currently constructed, isn’t enough to make the playoffs in the Western Conference.
However, it’s not likely that Jordan will be offered the $24.1 million he would’ve made with the Clippers by a multitude of suitors. NBA careers are short, and he’s in his prime. Money could be more of a factor at this point than winning.
The Clips are in the midst of a rebuild, and it’s possible they could approach him to restructure his contract. Frank Urbina of Hoops Hype offered an interesting proposal:
"“The Clippers could negotiate a Jordan re-signing at a more team-friendly price, too – one that benefits both player and club. Instead of paying him $24.1 million next year, they could agree to a three-year deal in the $45 million to $50 million range.”"
Although that proposal would benefit Los Angeles, and give the Clips flexibility with the salary cap, I can’t imagine Jordan agreeing to accept a pay cut to remain on a potential lottery team. Instead, there’s one team in the NBA that could pay him north of $20 million and give him the opportunity to win next season.