Clippers Restructure Roster
In a significant restructuring move, the Los Angeles Clippers opted to shed two key players from their roster, aiming to revitalize their team composition and move towards a younger lineup. The trades involved 11-time All-Star James Harden and reliable center Ivica Zubac, both of whom had become mainstays during their time with the team.
Motivation Behind the Trades
The decision to part ways with such pivotal figures was initially unplanned, but the arrival of a compelling trade proposal from the Indiana Pacers for Zubac, which team president Lawrence Frank described as a “Godfather-type offer,” made the move necessary. Meanwhile, the Cavaliers inquired about Harden, prompting further reflection on the team’s future.
Frank emphasized a dual focus on immediate success while also aiming to enhance the team’s long-term prospects.
“Not only did we want to win today, we also need to build a quote unquote better tomorrow,”
he stated. However, the emotional weight of the trades weighed heavily on the organization. Zubac had spent his formative years with the Clippers, coming over from the Lakers and making a name for himself as a key defensive player. Last season, he achieved personal bests and became the team’s longest-serving active member.
Emotional Farewell
The night prior to the trade, Frank informed Zubac about the Pacers’ increasing interest. Despite hoping the deal wouldn’t meet the Clippers’ criteria, the Pacers were persistent. Zubac poignantly reached out for one last visit to the practice facility, which turned into an emotional farewell, filled with heartfelt goodbyes from teammates and staff, marking the end of a significant chapter.
“There were a lot of tears,”
Frank recalled. Zubac’s departure was particularly poignant as it followed the birth of his first child. He was known for his candidness with teammates, often addressing uncomfortable truths during challenging times, making the farewell even more difficult for the organization.
Impact of Harden’s Trade
As for Harden, who at 36 years old had been a pivotal player in moments when Kawhi Leonard was unavailable due to injury, the Clippers appreciated the leadership and performance he brought to the team. Frank acknowledged Harden’s understanding of the business aspect of basketball, noting,
“James understands the business better than any player I’ve ever known.”
The decision to trade Harden, alongside the departure of 40-year-old Chris Paul, was intended to refresh the team’s dynamic, particularly as the Clippers aim to solidify a future while competing in the present.
Current Season Performance
After a rocky start to the season with a 6-21 record, the Clippers have surged up to ninth place in the Western Conference, winning 19 out of their last 25 games leading into Tuesday’s matchup against the Houston Rockets. Regarding the impact of the trades on current players, Frank noted that while Kawhi Leonard was understandably upset by the losses, he recognized the need for difficult decisions for the team’s sustainability.
New Additions to the Team
As part of the reshuffle, the Clippers welcomed two-time All-Star Darius Garland from the Cavaliers in exchange for Harden. Garland, who has been sidelined with a toe injury since January 16, is expected to recover and contribute positively to the team once he returns, and he is notably a decade younger than Harden. This shift reflects the Clippers’ new strategy of fostering a younger core while looking to maintain competitive viability going forward.
