Although Malcolm Brogdon is no longer a member of the Boston Celtics, the Los Angeles Clippers are still considering a last-minute acquisition.
Before the Celtics acquired Kristaps Porzingis earlier in the offseason, Los Angeles came dangerously close to landing Brogdon in the widely anticipated three-team blockbuster. The defending league Sixth Man of the Year was up for transfer, but the Clippers withdrew, giving the Celtics another chance, which they took.
And now, once again, the Clippers are linked to Brogdon, only under much different circumstances.
“Both the Clippers and (Philadelphia) Sixers made attempts to trade for Jrue Holiday during his brief stay in Portland, and the Clippers continue to have interest in Blazers guard Malcolm Brogdon,” PHLY Sports’ Kyle Nubeck wrote.
Unlike the previous times in which LA expressed interest in adding Brogdon, while with the Celtics, there’s another layer to the continuously circulating rumors linking the two: James Harden.
Philadelphia is on the clock with Harden, who is still playing tug-a-war with 76ers president of basketball operations Daryl Morey in hopes of a trade. Harden’s preferred destination has also been rumored to be Los Angeles, however the spoiled relationship could soil any chances of the 76ers doing Harden an offseason favor on his way out the City of Brotherly Love.
Los Angeles’ initial plan A, which turned into plan B, could once again become plan A pending the outcome of Harden’s presumed Philadelphia departure.
Although, there’s no guarentee that Brogdon even wants to leave Portland in the first place. Beides, the Trail Blazers could offer a starting spot plus a very valued veteran voice while the Clippers have a faulty core, but on the flip side, do offer championship potential.
According to a video given by the squad, Brogdon told reporters at training camp, “I want to be here.” There is a lot of false information floating around about how they must trade me or how I want to join (a contender). I’m working to maximize my opportunity right now. That’s actually what it is, and I’m enjoying it right now since it involves taking on a leadership role with these young men.
With Opening Night fewer than two weeks away, time is running out for both teams.
