Sat Sep 27 01:50:00 UTC 2025: **Clippers Reload Roster with Veteran Talent, Aim for Deep Playoff Run in 2025-26**
**Los Angeles, CA** – Following a disappointing first-round exit in the 2024-25 NBA playoffs, the Los Angeles Clippers have aggressively retooled their roster this offseason, adding a wealth of veteran talent in hopes of contending for an NBA title.
The Clippers, who finished last season with a 50-32 record and the fifth seed in the Western Conference, are banking on the leadership and scoring prowess of James Harden and a healthy Kawhi Leonard, after Harden agreeing to a two year deal. The Clippers then traded Norman Powell, to acquire stretch forward John Collins from the Utah Jazz. The Clippers continued to strengthen by signing three-time All-Star Bradley Beal, after his buyout with Phoenix, and bringing back 12-time All-Star Chris Paul in free agency. Brook Lopez was also acquired, and will contribute as another floor-spacer.
“It was a no-brainer,” stated Chris Paul on his decision to return to the Clippers and compete for a championship.
While the Clippers ranked third in defensive rating last season, their offense lagged behind at 20th in scoring. The additions of Beal and Paul, along with the frontcourt shooting from Collins and Lopez, are expected to address this imbalance. Beal brings off-ball shooting and scoring versatility, while Paul offers elite distribution and floor management.
“They addressed their ballhandling issues with Bradley Beal, who replaces [Norman] Powell, and Chris Paul, who replaces Patty Mills. They addressed their frontcourt options with John Collins, who replaces Amir Coffey, and Brook Lopez, who replaces Ben Simmons,” noted Law Murray of The Athletic.
The Clippers are also counting on continued strong performances from key players like Ivica Zubac. Harden’s partnership with Zubac was particularly effective last season, and a healthy Leonard alongside Harden led to improved stats and a winning record.
The question remains whether this collection of veteran stars can gel and compete with the top teams in the Western Conference. Concerns about age and potential injury risks persist, but the Clippers are betting that their newfound depth and experience will be enough to propel them to a deep playoff run.
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