The Los Angeles Clippers could add Matthew Dellavedova and Jeremy Lin in their list of potential free agent targets this summer.
Following the Clippers' failed championship aspiration this year, the team is expected to reassess their future plans this summer, where LA will have a chance to improve their roster via free agency. Despite the early exit from the playoffs, no thanks to injuries suffered by Chris Paul and Blake Griffin, the Clippers plan to stick with their core to make one final run at the elusive NBA championship.
However, Lob City may have to consider upgrading their bench by signing backup guards who could carry some of Paul's workload, especially if Austin Rivers and Jamal Crawford decide to explore free agency. Tom West of Sports Illustrated's Clipperholics proposed a list of point guards whom the Clippers could pursue in July, including Dellavedova and Lin.
Dellavedova, who signed with the Cleveland Cavaliers last year for a one-year $1.14 million contract, would be an upgrade for the Clippers' backup PG spot. The gritty Aussie, who had a breakthrough for his heroics in last year's NBA Finals, offers the same type of defense Rivers give, but a more polished player in terms of point guard duties, posting 4.4 assists per contests than Rivers' 1.5.
Dellavedova could be looking at more lucrative deals this summer, hence the one-year pact with the Cavs. With the Clippers on a limited budget for free agent signings, they may not be a destination preferred by Dellavedova, especially if the Cavs express interests to retain him in the offseason.
Lin, on the other hand, could also give the Clippers another second stringer who could play well on both ends of the floor. The 27-year-old guard may not be much of a scorer like Crawford, but has more upside in his overall game.
Lin has a fair share of struggles during his first year playing as second stringer with the Hornets. But there were times the former Knicks has proven he can run the show in Charlotte and even showing glimpse of Linsanity last season. Lin's average of 11.7 points and 3.0 assists per game during the regular season would be a helpful addition in the Clippers' bench.
However, like Dellavedova, Lin would probably be searching for a more lucrative contract as he is expected to opt out of his two-year $4.3 million deal with the Hornets. Unless Lin is looking for a short-term deal, the Clippers have a slim chance at signing Lin in July.
The Clippers head into the summer with limited money to spend on free agents as the team is only projected to have a maximum salary cap space of $8 million, according to Real GM. Certainly, the Clippers need any help they could get, but free agency may not be the right avenue to improve their roster.