INGLEWOOD, Calif. – The Los Angeles Clippers face a crucial offseason, with Kawhi Leonard’s health as a key factor for the team’s success.
For the first time since 2020, Leonard arrives at the preseason without significant physical problems, after having participated in only 37 games before the Clippers’ elimination in the first round of the playoffs.
The team, which has one of the most veteran rosters in the league, places its hopes in Leonard and James Harden, two players with a great track record.
I definitely believe in those two.
Lawrence Frank, President of Basketball Operations
Leonard, who didn’t debut until January due to inflammation in his right knee, averaged 21.5 points, 6.4 rebounds, 3.1 assists, and 31.9 minutes during the regular season. The player has two years remaining on his current contract.
There’s another level for him that he’ll reach next year. I think we can improve with more Kawhi games.
Lawrence Frank
Harden, whose role changed this season, took on a greater responsibility on the team until Leonard was able to play. The player averaged 22.8 points, 8.7 assists, and 5.8 rebounds, playing 35 minutes per game in 79 games.
However, his performance in the seventh game of the series against Denver was discreet, scoring only seven points.
The Clippers failed to advance past the first round of the playoffs for the third consecutive year, despite a 50-32 record and securing the fifth seed in the competitive Western Conference.
Our players are ashamed of the seventh game and really upset about losing the series.
Lawrence Frank
Harden has a player option for next season, when he will be 36 years old. Frank has expressed his intention to reach an agreement with Harden, whether or not he exercises his option.
Nicolas Batum also has a player option for next season. The player had a 43% three-point shooting percentage in 78 regular season games.
Yes, 1,000 percent, we hope Nico returns.
Lawrence Frank
Ivica Zubac and Norman Powell had outstanding seasons. Powell is eligible for a contract extension, while Amir Coffey and Ben Simmons are unrestricted free agents.
Frank anticipates the Clippers winning between 50 and 55 games next season, with the addition of reinforcements for the offensive zone and another playmaker through free agency or trades.
It was great that we were healthy for the first time in a long time, but that doesn’t mean you only get one chance. We will keep trying and, at the same time, we have always been open to learning from our mistakes and finding areas where we can correct and improve them.
Lawrence Frank
