The Los Angeles Clippers had one of the most aggressive offseasons this year. While re-signing DeAndre Jordan got the most attention, they also added players like Lance Stephenson, Paul Pierce, Josh Smith and Cole Aldrich. Right now they are over the salary cap and aiming to make a few more roster adjustments before putting a bow on their offseason moves. That last little adjustment could easily come in the form of a trade of Jamal Crawford
As of right now, the Clippers are currently $13.07 million over the salary cap line. Getting rid of Crawford and his $5.67 million salary is certainly ideal for the team considering the reserve unit for the backcourt is already crowded with Wesley Johnson, Austin Rivers, Stephenson and Pablo Prigioni. The former Sixth Man of the Year is now no longer needed and carry too heavy of a contract to keep on. However, can the Clippers find a suitable trade deal.
According to the OC Register, the Clippers still want another center to add to the roster. Right now, the team has Jordan with Aldrich as his backup. Aldrich is not guaranteed to make the final roster despite signing in free agency and there are suitable upgrades available. A trade of Crawford could be used to make that happen. The easiest assumption would be the Miami Heat who have been targeting Crawford for some time now. According to the Miami Herald, the Heat have dangled Chris Andersen in front of the Clippers, but his contract hurts just as badly as Crawford's. That deal is not likely to be finalized.
Brad Turner of the Los Angeles Times is reporting the Clippers have a higher interest in Glen Davis over any other player to help with size. While Smith is versatile and could see time at center, Davis has more size on the forward and could be better used under the rim. The center would only need to play about 5-7 minutes per game and would easily accept a small contract.
The question is whether or not the Clippers favor Aldrich and Jordan as the leading frontcourt duo. Aldrich averaged 12.5 points and 12.5 rebounds last year and proved to be quality off the bench. He seems like the best option over Davis at this point.
