The L.A. Clippers have begun a new phase in the franchise's history, moving past the Chris Paul era, but keeping Blake Griffin on a five-year deal. In trading for Paul, L.A. received some solid pieces in defensive-minded point guard Patrick Beverley, young forward Sam Dekker, former Sixth Man of the Year Lou Williams, and a beast in the paint in power forward Montrezl Harrell. A couple of younger players were also involved in the deal, but it's unlikely they play a big role with the team.
Losing Paul and shooting guard J.J. Redick means the Clippers new starting backcourt will feature Beverley and Austin Rivers, two solid defensive guards who can hit the open three. The current Clippers team lacks a legitimate, playmaking point guard to run their offense the likes of Chris Paul, but they could get look to get one on the free agent market. According to Alex Kennedy of HoopsHype, veteran point guard Rajon Rondo is interested in joining the Clippers.
Hearing Rajon Rondo would be interested in the Clippers. He likes Los Angeles. Also, he has friends on the team and history with Doc Rivers.
— Alex Kennedy (@AlexKennedyNBA) July 2, 2017
Rondo endured a difficult 2016-17 season with the Chicago Bulls from a starting role to a lengthy benching where he averaged 7.8 points, 5.1 rebounds, 6.7 assists, and 1.4 steals per game in 69 games and 42 total starts. He was the main reason the eighth seeded Bulls took a 2-0 series lead against the first-seeded Boston Celtics without home-court advantage averaging 11.5 points, 8.5 rebounds, 10.0 assists, and 3.5 steals per game.
As is already known, Rondo was coached by coach Doc Rivers for seven seasons from 2006-07 to 2012-13, winning a title in 2008. Rondo is at the stage of his career where his defense is a bit of a liability, but the Clippers could look past that with their defensive guards and DeAndre Jordan manning the middle.
Follow Us
Subscribe