The Los Angeles Clippers shocked everyone at the trade deadline when they acquired Darius Garland from the Cleveland Cavaliers in exchange for James Harden. They followed that up by trading long-time center Ivica Zubac to the Indiana Pacers for Bennedict Mathurin, Isaiah Jackson, and a couple first-round picks.
The Clippers had largely turned things around after a 6-21 start to the season, so retooling for the future came as a bit of a surprise. Owner Steve Ballmer is known for wanting to win at all costs, so this was a change of pace for him.Â
Even though Ballmer went against his usual principles, LA has reaped the rewards of the trade so far.
Steve Ballmer saved the Clippers’ long-term future by acquiring Garland and Mathurin
The great thing about the moves LA made is the fact that both Garland and Mathurin are on the younger side, but both players can also help the team win now.
So far, both players have fit right in next to Kawhi Leonard. Garland is averaging 19 points per game, six assists, and shooting 46 percent from three-point range. His numbers as a starter are even better, as he is at 21 PPG, and seven assists on similar efficiency.Â
Mathurin has steadied the bench unit with his scoring ability, as he is averaging 20 PPG off the bench. He has not caught a rhythm from three-point range yet, but he has been relentless attacking downhill and getting to the free-throw line a lot.Â
Both players have provided Leonard with much-needed offensive support from both a scoring and playmaking perspective. Garland has been able to produce easier looks for Leonard thanks to his playmaking, a trait that he showed during his time with the Donovan Mitchell and the Cavaliers as well.Â
The Clippers are unlikely to make serious noise this year in the playoffs, given the current state of the West, and the flaws on their roster. That is why making the decision to retool, instead of chasing the play-in with an aging roster, was a prudent one.Â
They can still try and compete in the play-in this season, but have comfort in knowing that they have replenished draft capital and more young talent. LA made the right decision to do that, and with Garland and Mathurin both entering the primes of their careers, and Leonard showing that he is an ageless wonder, the Clippers are one good offseason away from being serious players in the West next season.