The Los Angeles Lakers officially kicked off the trade season. Notably, the 17-time champions introduced Rui Hachimura to their fans. Now it seems the trend is continuing in LA. The Los Angeles Clippers might trade for a defensive big who won a championship with their cornerstone, Kawhi Leonard. However, their fans didn?t take well to the news.
The Clippers fans have long waited for success. The Klaw and Paul George donning their jersey raised hopes. However, all it has been for the last three seasons is hope. Notably, injuries kept the 2019 Finals MVP from playing the entire last season. Moreover, he was even on a minutes restriction to begin this season.
Now almost completely healed, the former DPOY has found his rhythm. Heating up in the last five contests, the Clippers look like serious competitors. In this much-anticipated trade period, the franchise has its eyes on veteran center Serge Ibaka.
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Kawhi Leonard and Ibaka find their way back?
Ibaka made headlines after mutually agreeing to part ways with the Bucks as reported by The Athletic. Since then, the 33-year-old is an attractive signing. The Clippers have a solid Ivica Zubac at the center. Looking for a capable backup, the three-time All-Defensive member?s name has come into talks according to AHN Fire Digital. Several Western Conference sides have shown interest including the Clippers. Kawhi Leonard might be happy reuniting with his friend. However, the fans are beyond frustrated deeming the move to be unserious.
The fans feel they are taking a step back by signing the former NBA champion. The major reason is his lack of playing time this year. Ibaka is averaging just 4.1 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 0.8 blocks and played in only 16 games so far. However, his impact might run deeper.
nah bruh what the fuck 😭 https://t.co/ZmoJuPF8IG
— ً (@optionszz) January 23, 2023
https://twitter.com/GLO4SHAUN/status/1617537052479717376?s=20&t=kDYqSRSCKvq-HIp_R_T8Sw
Clippers just making their version of the 2019 Raptors
— 🔛🔝🔜 (@Bfrm905) January 23, 2023
Bro we literally gave him away for nothing why would we want him back
— marty (@MartinH_23) January 23, 2023
— Toms (@TomsAvignonnais) January 24, 2023
Y’all literally had him lmaoo. Bozos https://t.co/9JGgSRQCTd
— DJ 🤴🏾 (@mindofgoatdj) January 23, 2023
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Man hell no he ain’t played all season https://t.co/YhOKuLvq6P
— 🚦 (@TurpMia) January 23, 2023
The Clippers currently have a solid core of starters. The Klaw and PG13 are both top two-way players in the NBA. Around them, they have skillful talents such as Reggie Jackson and Nicolas Batum. In addition, with Norman Powell giving nearly 17 points off the bench, the Clippers are well sort on offense. However, it’s their defense where Ibaka can make an impact. The former All-Defensive star is still a more than capable shot blocker in the league. In addition, he can knock down threes helping to spread the floor.
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WATCH THIS STORY???LeBron James Chucks Aside Lakers Trade Questions with 5 Words
Clipper fans might be upset now, but Serge Ibaka could serve as the missing piece in Leonard?s search for a championship. Do you think they will make a move? Let us know your views in the comments below.