Clippers Could Have One Major Final Move of the Offseason

The Los Angeles Clippers may have one final move up their sleeve before the season begins.

Los Angeles Clippers guard Kris Dunn looks to pass against Denver Nuggets forward Peyton Watson. | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

The NBA offseason has quieted down over the last few weeks. Rosters are nearly complete, and the wait is on for the start of the season. However, the Los Angeles Clippers still have a few question marks.

The Kawhi Leonard trade is still looming over their heads as the league continues its cap circumvention investigation, but all signs are pointing toward Brandon Ingram and Gradey Dick being in LA soon.

There are still quality role players searching for a home this season, and the Clippers could get involved with a forward.

Could Peyton Watson End Up With the Clippers?

A Peyton Watson sign-and-trade feels inevitable at this point. Watson and the Denver Nuggets are at a stalemate in contract negotiations. The Nuggets have zero financial flexibility as they're above the second apron, and Watson hasn't budged on his contract demands.

In fact, Denver has been too quiet this summer. Outside of signing Marvin Bagley, the Nuggets have been inactive in shedding salary. That's why LA could take advantage of this situation. Someone like Derrick Jones Jr. could be on the move in a sign-and-trade, but the draft capital would decrease in that scenario.

It feels like the 6'8" forward is the Clippers' top priority at the moment. The 24-year-old aligns with LA's new timeline as they transition to a post-Leonard era. Watson averaged career highs in points (14.6), rebounds (4.9), and assists per game (2.1) last season.

The Clippers are trying to get younger. They've added wings in Rui Hachimura and Ingram this offseason, but Watson should have a path to significant playing time. He would be an excellent addition to this roster.

Evaluating Other Options

Watson could be the final move of the offseason for LA, but if that plan falls through, there are other options to take.

NBA insider Marc Stein reported that the Clippers remain interested in bringing back Bradley Beal. The veteran guard declined his player option, but a reunion is still on the table if a better offer doesn't materialize.

Bennedict Mathurin remains on the market as a restricted free agent. Stein reported that the New Orleans Pelicans were interested in Mathurin, but re-signing the young guard is an option for the Clippers. He struggled in his short tenure with LA, but a full offseason to get his feet under him could help.

There is also the possibility that the Clippers swing a trade for a center. It's an area LA hasn't addressed this summer, but the options are thin. Ultimately, a move for Watson would be the best path for the Clippers.