Clippers strengthen their goals! Target the sixth man in the past, or give up Simmons because of this

On May 9, NBA Los Angeles Clippers' team reporter Lawrence revealed in a podcast that the team's management is actively planning a reinforcing plan for the offseason, with 32-year-old free agent Malcolm Brogdon becoming a key target, and Ben Simmons, who had been highly anticipated, may not stay in the team. Brogden is still favored by injuries this season with the Washington Wizards, and his annual salary of $22.5 million is about to expire. Although he has only played 24 games this season and has played less than 40 games in three seasons in the past four years, Murray said bluntly: "If Brogdon was bought out in February, the Clippers will definitely fight for him as if they were considering Simmons." The 2017 Rookie and 2023 Sixth Man winner, with a career average of 15.3 points and 4.7 assists, coupled with a 46.3% shooting percentage and 38.8% three-pointers, perfectly match the Clippers' demand for point guards.

Double blessing of connections and strength

It is worth noting that Brogden has a close personal relationship with Michael Wenger, the current president of basketball operations of the Wizards, who has worked in the management of the Clippers for many years. This relationship may add bargaining chips to the Clippers' recruitment. Murray analyzed: "He is 1.96 meters tall and does not suffer any loss on the defensive end. He can organize offense and open up space. This is the characteristic that the Clippers' existing lineup lacks. "

The data decline hiding concerns

However, Brogden's form has declined significantly this season, averaging 23.5 minutes per game and hit a career low, with a three-point shooting rate plummeting to 28.6%. Experts believe that it is necessary to look at this dialectically: The Wizards' record at the bottom of the league this season has led to the lack of systematic support for the team, and the sample size is too small to truly reflect the player's level. An Eastern Conference scout revealed: "Give him a stable playing time and tactical position, he remains one of the league's most reliable substitute commanders. "

Health becomes the biggest unknown

Clippers' medical team will face severe tests. Brogden has missed more than 150 games in the past five seasons, which is a huge risk for teams that are determined to win the championship. But the Clippers seem willing to take a gamble - they need a cost-effective point guard, and Brogdon's market price may be discounted by injury history.

With the first round elimination, the Clippers' lineup restructuring this summer is full of variables. If management can sign the experienced veteran Brogden at a low price, it may add a key puzzle to the team.