Los Angeles Clippers speculation: Future plans with James Harden and Kawhi Leonard post-playoff elimination
The Los Angeles Clippers were left fuming after their heartbreaking elimination in a tense seven-game series against the Denver Nuggets. Despite displaying top-form towards the tail-end of the season, including a decisive Game 3 victory over the Nuggets and a Game 6 comeback, the Clippers Ultimately fell short, with a crushing 120-101 loss in Game 7 on Saturday.
The Clippers' post-season prospects hang in the balance, but rumors suggest that the team will be built around the talismans of James Harden and Kawhi Leonard. Law Murray of The Athletic reported that the Clippers are looking to keep both players for the foreseeable future.
"The focus moves to Harden and Leonard, with the Clippers aiming to maintain roster flexibility ahead of the following two offseasons," Murray penned. "Harden has a player option worth $36.4 million for the next season, but sources indicate that he'll be back with the Clippers one way or another."
Harden's performance in Game 7 was far from stellar, yet his presence has proved instrumental in the team's offensive strategy throughout the regular season. Despite his declining productivity in his post-prime years, Harden remains one of the most influential playmakers in the NBA.
Moving forward, it remains uncertain what the Clippers' roster will look like, but the team has proven this season that it can compete for the title with Harden and Leonard steering the ship. Having made a strong comeback in the second half of the 2021-2022 campaign, the Clippers will have another opportunity to stake a claim for the Western Conference title next year.
Whichever direction the Clippers' rebuild takes, the future of the team will surely revolve around the duo of Harden and Leonard. Whether they opt to keep their depth or pursue a high-profile third star, the Clippers will be aiming to make another run at the championship next season.
Note: During the 2022-2023 season, James Harden was not yet a member of the Los Angeles Clippers. He joined the team in November 2023, as part of a trade with the Philadelphia 76ers.
The focus of the Clippers' plans for the upcoming sports seasons is undeniably the duo of James Harden and Kawhi Leonard, as they aim to rebuild and compete in the NBA playoffs. Despite their heartbreaking elimination in the 2021-2022 NBA playoffs, the team will strive to make another run at the Western Conference title during the 2023-2024 season.
