The Los Angeles Clippers built an impressive roster in the offseason, but injuries have been a major hit at this point in the season. The Clippers have one roster spot remaining that they left open after training camp. Much has been made over what they will do with the spot which could be given to Lamar Odom or someone to help with depth issues.
ESPN reports that the Clippers are considering using their last roster spot for Stephen Jackson after injuries to JJ Redick, Matt Barnes and Reggie Bullock. That leaves the team extremely short at the wing position. Redick could be out for at least six weeks after injuring both his hand and elbow. His absence has been extremely noticeable as the Clippers have struggled on offense. It is unknown if Barnes and Bullock will miss significant time.
So Jackson is the main target after he was released by the San Antonio Spurs at the end of the regular season. His release came after Jackson had reportedly grown unhappy with his role on the team. He requested a trade and got released instead. Jackson is not as big of an offensive threat as Redick. The 35-year-old averaged 6.2 points and 2.8 rebounds in 55 games. He shot 37.3 percent overall last season. Jackson has worked out for several teams but has not signed with anyone likely because of age and time off the court.
If the Clippers sign Jackson, Odom could be out of the picture. There have been several reports that Odom was the main target for that final roster spot after Doc Rivers and company met with him a few weeks ago. Odom spent time in Rhode Island working with an NBA trainer. While Odom is considered to still not be ready to take the court, the former Sixth Man of the Year was hoping to sign with a team by January.
Rivers has been a long-time fan of Odom and praised the forward after meeting with him. He referred to the meeting as a routine catchup trying to figure out where Odom was up physically and mentally, but the Clippers are the favorite to take a chance on him.
The loss of Redick makes the signing of Jackson a priority over Odom. He is ready to play tomorrow while Odom is not. If Jackson signs, Odom might be forced to cross Los Angeles off his list.