The Los Angeles Clippers did experience some success last season, finishing 51-31 and making the playoffs as a fourth seed in the Western Conference.
The team managed to find its groove following their trade for James Harden.
The season didn't end the way LA had wanted, with them getting bounced in the first round against the Dallas Mavericks.
Ahead of moving to a new arena in the fall, the Clipps will most likely look to run it back, hopefully becoming championship contenders.
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Keeping the Core Together
The Paul George and James Harden contract situation is one major hurdle that Steve Ballmer and the Clippers would like to resolve quickly this offseason.
According to ESPN insider Adrian Wojnarowski, Los Angeles is expected to keep George and Harden.
George has been with the Clippers for the last five seasons despite injuries limiting his ability to stay on the court; although, he has consistently contributed to this team and is one of its best players.
Paul George will seek the maximum, which can net him up to $212.2M for four years, per Eric Pincus.
The Clippers will have until June 30th to get a deal done.
For Harden, he immediately served as a primary ball handler and facilitator for LA upon his arrival. After his move to Los Angeles, he has averaged 16.6 points and 8.5 assists per game.
James Harden will likely command less than George, as there wasn't much interest in acquiring Harden before the trade to Los Angeles.
The former MVP, turning 35 this summer, has shown that he can still play at a high level.
Kawhi Leonard already being paid and the now-extended Tyronn Lue are locked in for the future, as Lue became the highest-paid head coach in the league.
Team Needs
(Photo : Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
The Clippers could be looking to get an upgrade at the point guard position.
Russell Westbrook has been serviceable throughout his time with the Clippers, but LA could search for a more productive player who is a bit younger.
Westbrook also didn't do himself any favors in the postseason with several poor shooting performances.
He took a below-market deal last summer, signing for two years at $7.8M.
Russell Westbrook could opt out for a bigger contract. If he does, it may make sense for the Clips to let him walk.
Are They Elite?
Last season was one of the best for the Kawhi Leonard/Paul George duo. However, one has to ask, do the Clippers have enough to compete in an ever-changing and competitive Western Conference?
Leonard and Geroge are only getting older, and it may become hard for them to compete in a loaded Western Conference with younger, hungrier teams.
Their roster shows a solid group of guys surrounding their core four.
Norman Powell, Ivica Zubac, and Terance Mann are on the roster with guaranteed deals for next season, and have played exceptionally well alongside Harden/Westbrook/Leonard and George.
However, do they have enough to elevate their aging yet solid core above the rest? Do they need to make another trade to help secure their championship hopes?
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