2. The 2019 Offseason Might Be the Real Treat

Was this Jerry West’s master plan all along? The Clippers are projected to have around $70 million in cap space next summer with expiring contracts and some expected moves (Not re-signing Gallinari). The 2019 offseason also conveniently has some of the best players in the league available as free agents.

These players include; Kawhi Leonard, Klay Thompson, Kemba Walker, Karl Anthony Towns and Kristaps Porzingis just to name a few. While the Clippers are playing for the now, the 2019 offseason could make the future of this organization all the more bright.

The real question is though, what does this team truly need? Who is a realistic target?

With the recent firing of Clippers local color commentator Bruce Bowen because of remarks he made about projected FA target Kawhi Leonard, it’s now obvious who the Clippers are looking for. Kawhi is an L.A. kid and has made it known that L.A. is a destination he is trending towards. There have also been reports that Kawhi doesn’t want to play in Lebron’s shadow. This now leaves the Clippers as an option that does make complete sense.

Another priority for the Clippers should be the acquisition of a center. While I’m sure Marcin Gortat will do an O.K. job as a one-year stop-gap in Deandre’s absence, having a long-term star down low would also help. That’s where a KAT or Myles Turner (also an FA) could step in and fill a void.

Another thing to look at is in the wake of declining an extension with the Clippers, Tobias Harris has made it clear that he is going to be looking for a big-time payday in the 2019 offseason. I’ve written previously about his expectations for this season and if he deserves a max.

If he has a big year, I expect the Clippers to take the bait and pay the man. He’s still only 26 and is a great scorer and improving defender. Having a lineup of SGA, Bradley, Harris and potentially Leonard (along with some other center besides Gortat) is dangerous and something that could be realistic for L.A. next season.

While fans of the Clippers shouldn’t overlook the upcoming season at hand, having the amount of money L.A. does next summer is exciting. It could potentially provide the Clippers identity for seasons to come. Knowing the Clippers history, they could whiff. Let’s hope they don’t mess up this opportunity.

Next Up: Takeaway 1