The Los Angeles Clippers revamped their second unit ahead of the trade deadline. They completed multiple trades that resulted in Bones Hyland, Eric Gordon and Mason Plumlee joining the team for the stretch run.
All three players have found roles right away with the team and have excelled in them. But, it turns out Los Angeles wasn’t done reshaping the roster. They are planning to make another addition to their backcourt and plan to sign Russell Westbrook once he clears waivers following a buyout from the Utah Jazz.
Westbrook ended up with the Jazz as part of a three-team deal that also included the Minnesota Timberwolves. The Los Angeles Lakers revamped their roster in the deal, acquiring D’Angelo Russell, Malik Beasley and Jarred Vanderbilt as part of the transaction.
The Jazz gave Westbrook time to think about what he wanted to do next. They would have accepted him with open arms, but they could not guarantee him minutes or a sizable role as they are focused on a youth movement. He has made his decision and will be joining the Clippers in the coming days.
This is something that will make Paul George and Nicolas Batum happy, as they were both recruiting and speaking highly of the former MVP. However, some work will need to be done when it comes to Westbrook fitting in with the Clippers. An NBA scout that spoke to NBA Analysis Network shared some insight into how he could fit with the team.
“The Clippers needed a guard that can get into the paint and make plays. With how inefficient Westbrook has been this season, I have to see it before I have confidence. … Westbrook does have chemistry with Paul George. Kawhi Leonard can play with anybody since he gets to his spots in mid-range and draws double-teams even when he’s got all shooters around him. If it doesn’t work with the Clippers, I don’t see where it’ll work for Westbrook.”
That chemistry with George will certainly help, but it is hard to envision Westbrook playing many minutes alongside him and Kawhi Leonard unless he blows away Tyronn Lue with his level of performance. Westbrook is certainly a better fit for the second unit and the skill sets that Lue can mix and match with his bench group.
At this stage of his career, Westbrook needs a very specific environment to succeed. It is one that the Clippers can certainly provide, as they have the pieces to play small and surround him with floor spacing.
“Westbrook has been at his best in recent years when he’s playing with small ball lineups. The Clippers can throw out different options to spread the floor and to switch defensively. Those are the keys for making it work. He has to improve off-ball when playing in lineups with Zubac. He also needs to accept Leonard and George being the superstars in big moments.”
This could very well be Westbrook’s last chance to prove that he can be a useful part of a winning team. He put his pride aside and accepted a role change with the Lakers, finding success with the second unit. If he can do that again with the Clippers, he will raise his value across the league.
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