Kawhi Leonard enters the offseason wholesome for the primary time since 2020, a big growth after the LA Clippers’ first-round playoff exit in opposition to the Denver Nuggets. The staff’s president of basketball operations, Lawrence Frank, expressed continued confidence in constructing round Leonard and James Harden regardless of having the NBA’s oldest roster.
“I undoubtedly imagine in these two,” Frank mentioned Monday throughout a media session performed by way of video from New York.
Leonard missed the start of the season with irritation in his surgically repaired proper knee, not making his debut till January. He averaged 21.5 factors, 6.4 rebounds, and three.1 assists in 37 video games throughout the common season.
“There’s one other stage for him on the market that he’ll get to subsequent 12 months,” Frank mentioned. “I believe taking a look at subsequent 12 months that we will be higher with extra video games from Kawhi.”
Offseason Priorities and Free Company Focus
Harden, who has a participant possibility for subsequent season, averaged 22.8 factors and eight.7 assists whereas taking part in 79 video games. The Clippers plan to barter with the 35-year-old guard if he declines his possibility.
“We’ve an important stage of appreciation for what James did this 12 months. I am moving into with the intent that if he does not decide up his possibility that we’re going to have the ability to attain an settlement that works effectively for James and works effectively for the Clippers,” Frank defined.
The Clippers completed 50-32 of their first season at Intuit Dome, however did not advance previous the primary spherical for the third consecutive 12 months. Their Sport 7 loss to Denver noticed Harden rating simply seven factors on 2-for-8 taking pictures.
Frank recognized frontcourt assist and one other playmaker as key offseason targets via free company or trades. The staff additionally hopes to retain Nicolas Batum, who shot 43% from three-point vary and holds a participant possibility for subsequent season.
