The Los Angeles Clippers are already being deemed as an early favorite to win the 2023 NBA title with the return of Kawhi Leonard. However, they will have to try and retain a key rotational piece this summer. Forward Nicolas Batum is declining his $3.3 million player option and will test free agency but as Adrian Wojnarowski notes, there is a very good chance he signs a new deal with the Clips.
Clippers F Nic Batum will decline his $3.3M player option and become a free agent, sources tell ESPN. There’s expected to be mutual interest with Clippers and Batum on reaching a new deal in July.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 21, 2022
Batum came to the Clippers at one of the lowest points of his career. After five years with the Charlotte Hornets, the Frenchman was ultimately waived by the organization in November of 2020. Just days later, LA snagged him.
The 33-year-old played in 59 games last season (54 starts) averaging 8.3 points and 4.3 rebounds per night while shooting an impressive 40% from downtown. He's actually been a key reason the Clippers are one of the best three-point clubs in the Association.
Last month, Batum spoke on a French podcast and revealed Ty Lue “saved his life” and said he'd essentially like to finish his career with the franchise:
Une fin de carrière aux Clippers pour @nicolas88batum ?
"Tyronn Lue m'a sauvé la vie" 🗣#LibreAntenneNBA 🍿 avec @nicolas88batum (https://t.co/F7m2EHSkYM) pic.twitter.com/yXf3FRpSKF
— First Team (@FirstTeam101) May 23, 2022
That being said, it would not be a surprise to see the Clippers hand Nicolas Batum a new extension in July. There should be interest from the other teams as well, but it's clear where his heart is.
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