When the Los Angeles Clippers acquired Darius Garland from the Cleveland Cavaliers for James Harden, it signaled that the workforce was prepared for a reset and needed to get youthful. Garland, who was a two-time All-Star with the Cavs, was the right match for that agenda.
Though he solely suited up for 19 video games, Garland was environment friendly and explosive offensively for the Clippers. He was the right match subsequent to Kawhi Leonard and seemed very snug because the lead handler, which got here as no shock.
To additional brighten their outlook, LA additionally landed the fifth decide within the draft this 12 months, because of the Ivica Zubac commerce. Nonetheless, given how the draft might play out and who the Clippers have introduced in for prospect exercises, it might influence Garland.
Darius Garland’s long-term future in LA might be unsure after the NBA Draft
Garland has two years left on his present deal, however is eligible for a 3 12 months, $177 million contract extension this summer time. If he doesn’t find yourself extending, then that would turn into a sneaky storyline to watch across the league. LA’s extension determination is also impacted by who they choose within the draft.
The Clippers have introduced in Louisville guard Mikel Brown Jr. for exercises and he has reportedly been spectacular. Brown Jr. has additionally cancelled exercises with different groups, signaling that he might have acquired a promise from LA or Atlanta, the opposite workforce he labored out for.
Brown Jr. is likely one of the greatest guard prospects within the draft and whereas he might play both guard spot, however a backcourt of him and Garland could be small and might be exploited. Plus, if developed, Brown Jr. might be some extent guard at his peak.
So would the Clippers need two small guards, which is an issue that the Cavs had? That’s what they must resolve.
In the event that they do find yourself deciding on Brown Jr., they might see how he matches with Garland, whereas making him play out his contract. If it doesn’t work subsequent season, they might find yourself shifting Garland as an expiring $44 million contract in a commerce.
Both approach, Garland’s long-term future in LA will likely be one thing to watch, though he simply bought there. Constructing round a small backcourt is likely one of the hardest issues to do within the NBA, a actuality Cleveland needed to take care of for years with Garland and Mitchell. So, if the Clippers do find yourself taking Brown Jr. or one other guard on this 12 months’s draft, Garland’s long-term future instantly comes into query.
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