The LA Clippers have their work cut out for them at the trade deadline this year. With disappointing updates on the injuries of Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, they are reportedly looking to make moves that benefit the future of the team rather than trudge ahead and try to capitalize on this season.

According to Jake Fischer of Bleacher Report, the LA player most likely to be traded at the deadline is Serge Ibaka.

The Clippers moving Serge Ibaka appears to be the most likely trade deadline maneuver for Los Angeles. Shedding Ibaka's $9.7 million salary alone would save the Clippers over $40 million in tax penalties. As noted by ESPN.com's Bobby Marks, the Clippers still have $3.3 million available to send out in a trade this season, and only $3.1 million of Ibaka's salary would remain on his contract this year before he becomes a free agent. Oklahoma City is a trade partner to monitor, league sources said.

The 32-year-old Ibaka is in his second season with the Clippers. In 23 games this season, he is averaging just 6.3 points and 4.0 rebounds per game. Trading a barely-used player on a contract that expensive makes sense for LA but finding a team that would take him may be tough.

Ibaka's shooting and defense have made him a high-quality role player for a long time but age has caught up to him. Looking to save money and find a possible long-term piece could help the Clippers in the long run, even if it hurts them in the short-term future.

If the Clippers find a suitor for Ibaka, they will likely move 23-year-old Isaiah Hartenstein into the back-up center role for good. In 29 games this season, he has averaged 7.7 points and 4.7 rebounds.