LA Clippers: Updated 2021-22 starting 5 after surprise Eric Bledsoe trade
By Dalton Sell
Who will start at shooting guard and small forward for the LA Clippers next season after Eric Bledsoe trade?
Shooting Guard – Paul George
Paul George is undeniably among the most scrutinized players in the game today, and he silenced his critics following a sensational playoff run. Although they were defeated by the Phoenix Suns in the Western Conference Finals in LA’s first-ever appearance there, George gave a herculean effort with Kawhi Leonard sidelined due to an ACL injury.
With Leonard set to miss a massive portion if not all of next season following his surgery, George will be the man everyone is counting on to step up in his place. It will be a heavy burden for the seven-time All-Star to carry, but George proved during this past season, particularly the playoffs, that he is still among the best players in the league, and he is poised for big things in 2021-22.
Small Forward – Nicolas Batum
With Leonard sidelined for an undisclosed amount of time, Nicolas Batum will likely get the nod at the starting small forward spot. After rejuvenating his career with the Clippers last season, it was a win-win for both sides after the team inked him to a new deal in the offseason as he simply fits like a glove.
Starting in 38 of his 67 appearances with the Clippers last season, Batum was solid as he averaged 8.1 points while shooting 46.4 percent from the field and 40.4 percent from behind the arc, giving them a dose of much-needed instant offense. If he does indeed get the start, he will be tasked with taking on a bigger role, and the 13-year NBA veteran will be ready for the increased opportunity.