After yet another disappointing postseason exit, the Los Angeles Clippers are yet to make promising moves ahead of the upcoming season. Injuries have messed up Clippers’ shot at the title over the years. While the trade saga around Paul George and Kawhi Leonard continues, an update about their 34-year-old veteran, who has averaged 16 points in his 15-year career, has been doing the rounds. With three superstars, including Russell Westbrook on the team, the Clippers’ payroll was estimated to be near $200 million. Well, that is just payroll alone.?
There was another $169 million burden, which was huge trouble for the billionaire owner Steve Ballmer. However, with the termination of the veteran forward’s contract, the Clippers will hope to make some bold moves now ahead of the 2024 season.?
How is the 34-year-old’s exit a boon for the Los Angeles Clippers?
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Paul George and Kawhi Leonard‘s future with the Clippers stand in doubt. The duo, which was expected to do wonders, failed majorly due to injuries. Veteran guard PG-13 was linked to the Cleveland Cavaliers recently too. While that stands as a concern for Ballmer, a sensible move has helped the 67-year-old save more than $100 million.?
‘Luxury tax’ is indeed a bitter word for many NBA owners. However, nothing comes close to what Steve Ballmer must feel. The Clippers were under a heavy burden of nearly $170 million in luxury tax alone, until their latest move.?
34-year-old Eric Gordon has entered free agency after the Clippers did not guarantee a $21 million salary for him. Though you may believe Gordon’s exit is a loss, the Clippers are now saving a massive lump sum of $110 million in tax alone.?
Gordon’s waiving saves the Clippers $110M in luxury tax, per @BobbyMarks42. https://t.co/g4dEgWxymZ
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 29, 2023
Now the Western Conference team has reduced its tax bill to $60 million approximately. This can open the gate for new moves now!
How did the Clippers escape the wrath of new CBA rules?
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The new CBA (Collective Bargaining Agreement) rules stood beneficial for several teams in the NBA. However, not for the LA Clippers. The two teams that were majorly affected by the new CBA rules were the Clippers and the Golden State Warriors.?
The new CBA rules make sure the rich teams do not get richer. The Warriors and the Clippers have spent a significant amount of money easily in signing superstars previously. However, with the significant change to the luxury tax system, the new CBA rules have reduced the scope for it majorly.
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Now that the Clippers have removed Gordon to save a massive amount, the CBA rules won’t be a problem for the time being. Do you think this is a huge win for Steve Ballmer? Share in the comments below.?