In Los Angeles, the Clippers' recent situation has been ever-changing. Despite suffering a crushing defeat in their last game against the Nuggets, they have not stopped seeking reinforcement. With the upcoming home game against the Hornets, the Clippers' management has clearly set its sights on potential trade targets. As the wildfires in the Los Angeles area affect the schedule, there is a risk of postponement for the Clippers' home games. In fact, the Lakers vs. Hornets game has already been postponed due to the wildfires, casting uncertainty over the prospects of seven out of the Clippers' next eight home games. However, despite the unfavorable external conditions, the Clippers are still striving to enhance their competitiveness.
Currently, the Clippers have a deep lineup at the guard and forward positions, but the center position is stretched thin. Zubac is the team's starting center, but there are only two players on the bench, Bamba and Kajones, with the former being benched and the latter struggling to shoulder the responsibility. In this situation, the Clippers' management has set its sights on the Hornets' backup center Richards.
Richards, the big man from Jamaica, stands at 213 cm tall and weighs 111 kg. With his outstanding physical talent and technical skills, he has become an ideal target for the Clippers. This season, he has contributed an average of 9.2 points, 7.7 rebounds, 1.3 assists, and 1.3 blocks per game in 21.1 minutes of playing time, with a shooting percentage of 56.7%. Such performance makes him a valuable backup center, and more notably, his salary is only $5 million, which is undoubtedly a viable trade option for the Clippers.
The Clippers can consider offering young player Highland and a second-round draft pick for Richards. More dramatically, the Clippers may conduct a "tryout" during the game against the Hornets, and once the trade is finalized, the team will immediately benefit from the addition of this new recruit. With the intensifying competition in the West, the Clippers have fallen to eighth place in the rankings, with the Spurs and Warriors close behind, urgently needing to strengthen their strength through trades.
At this uncertain moment, the Clippers' management is clearly working hard for the team's future. Although the wildfires have made the game schedule unpredictable, the team's reinforcement plan is still underway. The addition of Richards will undoubtedly provide more depth and vitality to the Clippers' frontline, helping the team get back on track in the upcoming games. As the possibility of a trade gradually emerges, Clippers fans are also looking forward to the new recruit bringing new hope to the team.