The Los Angeles Clippers have reportedly inquired about the availability of Lance Stephenson, who has already been placed by the Charlotte Hornets on the trading block.
The Clippers are currently one of the top teams in the Western Conference with a 16-7 record, but the team's front-office executives are aware that they still need a key piece on the roster in order for them to become a legit title contender this season.
According to reliable league sources, the Clippers are searching for a defensive-oriented winger capable of holding his ground against the best shooting guards and small forwards in the league.
Stephenson, despite having subpar numbers in points (10.4 ppg) and shooting percentages (39 percent), has remained an enticing trade target for the Clippers because of his defensive acumen and versatility.
According to veteran NBA analyst and Chicago Bulls beat writer Sam Smith, the Clippers might have an outside chance to land Stephenson despite their tight financial situation. The Hornets are presently looking for shooters to open up the lane for center Al Jefferson, and Smith believes JJ Redick seems to be a perfect fit.
"Can the Clippers get that wing defender? Lance Stephenson. He's got the size and can make plays and maybe already has worn out his welcome, though that seems a bit overstated. Given the Clippers are hard capped they'd have to match exactly, but with a package around J.J. Redick that might work," Smith stated in his NBA rumor mill article.
Redick, who is averaging 14.4 points while shooting 42 percent from beyond the three-point line, would certainly provide the Hornets a much-needed long range weapon. Moreover, Redick's contract $6M per year over three years is much cheaper than Stephenson's $27M, three-year deal.
The Hornets can ask for another veteran player, perhaps Matt Barnes, and some draft picks to put the icing on the deal. Then again, there are other teams willing to put more enticing offers on the table such as Stephenson's former team, the Indiana Pacers, and hometown ball club, the Brooklyn Nets.
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