Yardbarker
x
‘He was supposed to be a Laker’… Gilbert Arenas annoyed with LA Clippers trade for star
Credit: Alex Goodlett/Jakub Porzycki/NurPhoto/Ron Jenkins for BIG3 via Getty Images

Gilbert Arenas wanted to see one star from the LA Clippers trade join the LA Lakers instead.

The LA Clippers have made some big moves during this offseason. After a disappointing first-round exit in the playoffs, the franchise is retooling its roster ahead of the 2025-26 NBA season.

The first step for the Clippers was re-signing James Harden to a contract extension. They clearly still have faith in the Beard’s partnership with Kawhi Leonard.

The Clippers then went on to sign Brook Lopez from under the Lakers’ noses. Adding a backup center behind Ivica Zubac was a big step for them.

But the most surprising move came 24 hours ago, as the Clippers traded Norman Powell to land John Collins in a three-team trade.

This move has upset several people. While Heat fans are thrilled to land Powell, others are upset about missing out on John Collins, including Gilbert Arenas.

Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images

Gilbert Arenas wanted John Collins on LA Lakers instead of LA Clippers

Gilbert Arenas spoke on his podcast about the three-team trade between the LA Clippers, Miami Heat, and the Utah Jazz.

Arenas, who is a known LA Lakers fan, wanted Collins to join the Lakers, and thought a package of Dalton Knecht and Rui Hachimura was enough to get him. But seeing Collins go to the Clippers really annoyed Arenas.

“He was supposed to be a Laker. I thought Rui and Knecht’s a**** was gone. I woke up this morning, I couldn’t even react. Man, I thought we was getting him. We’ve got no hope now.”

Collins would have been a strong addition to the Lakers, as he is a tall power forward who can play well on both ends of the court. Plus, his size allows him to guard all positions on the court.

In the end, the LA Clippers acted quicker and were able to get their man. And with the tools given to him on the Clippers, Collins will experience great success.

LA Lakers could target Bradley Beal next, but that might be a bad idea

With Collins off the table, could the LA Lakers pursue Bradley Beal once he agrees to a buyout with the Suns?

LA Lakers insider Jovan Buha thinks Beal would be a bad idea for the Lakers, as he is a small guard who doesn’t play good defense.

Instead, Beal has been linked to the Clippers, and that deal would make far more sense. With Powell gone, the Clippers have an opening at the shooting guard spot.

Adding Beal could make up for the scoring that Powell brought to the Clippers last season. However, a backcourt of Beal and Harden might be too much to overcome given their defensive weakness.

We will have to wait and see what happens with Beal. But don’t be surprised to see the former All-Star end up on the Clippers.

This article first appeared on NBA Analysis Network and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads:

Customize Your Newsletter

Yardbarker +

Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!