LA Clippers: Updated 2021-22 starting 5 after surprise Eric Bledsoe trade

Who will start at power forward and center for the LA Clippers next season following Eric Bledsoe trade?

Power Forward – Marcus Morris Sr.

Marcus Morris Sr. started in 18 of the 19 playoff games he appeared in with the LA Clippers this past season, and there should not be much competition for him to retain that starting spot next year. In addition to the toughness and veteran savviness he brings to the table, the forward is a walking double-figure scorer, averaging a solid 13.4 points per game last season while shooting a career-best 47.3 percent from 3-point range last season.

Once again, with Leonard out to begin the year at the minimum, Morris is a player that will get more touches offensively, and he must take advantage. In that same line of thinking, he will be given a larger role defensively. Leonard is among the best wing defenders in the league today, and his absence means Morris will be tasked with taking on some of that pressure. Expect big things from Morris next season on both ends of the floor.

Center – Serge Ibaka

Serge Ibaka’s first season with the Clippers was a mixed bag. After a hot start in the starting role, he looked like he would be a key contributor, but he suffered a back injury that would keep him out for most of the season. Although he returned briefly in the team’s first-round series against the Dallas Mavericks, he would be shut down and undergo surgery. After accepting his player option, Ibaka has unfinished business with the Clippers, and if the offseason has been kind to him, he will likely reclaim his spot as the starting five next season.

That is entirely not guaranteed, as he could potentially be eased back into the lineup in place of Ivica Zubac, but that remains up in the air. When healthy, there is no doubt that Ibaka can score the basketball at a high level while also playing some formidable defense on the other end, and having him back in the fold next season would be a massive lift for the Clippers.