At least the Los Angeles Clippers have a busy few days ahead.
Stein Line’s Jake Fisher and Mark Stein reported Sunday that the team “could opt to be very active in unrestricted free agency if they decide to operate as a team with salary cap space.”
This comes as seven-time All-Star Kawhi Leonard is the source of growing speculation. Giving up the $50.3 million salary could give Los Angeles more flexibility in spending depending on what comes back.
Fisher and Stein have reported reuniting with veteran forward John Collins, although the San Antonio Spurs, Orlando Magic and Philadelphia 76ers are among the teams that could pursue him.
An earlier report from The Stein Line indicated Los Angeles’ interest in restricted free agent Peyton Watson if he can create the cap space needed to make a competitive offer.
On the trade front, the Clippers tried and failed to reach a deal with the Magic for center Goga Bitadze. Fischer and Stein said the Magic are “preparing for the loss of Moritz Wagner,” which forces them to focus more on Bitadze.
While Los Angeles wants to remain competitive, the bigger priority this summer is likely to be keeping the books clean for next offseason.
Six players are signed through the 2027-28 season, while Jordan Miller and Kobe Sanders are restricted free agents. Los Angeles’ market cap is about to hit nine figures, and there are several big names that could hit the market.
Even if the Clippers aren’t able to chase the big game in free agency, they’ll be in prime position to make a blockbuster trade.
For a long time, the organization stuck to Leonard and Paul George’s schedule because it had no alternative path. Now he can move on to a younger roster led by Darius Garland and first-round pick Keaton Wagler.
That doesn’t stop Los Angeles from accelerating the project’s timeline at a later date, but for now their focus is likely on 2027 and beyond.