On Wednesday night, the Los Angeles Clippers made a decision that will save them more than one hundred million dollars on their anticipated tax burden. They released guard Eric Gordon.
According to sources who spoke with ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, the Clippers decided not to guarantee Gordon’s $21 million deal before the deadline on Thursday.
Bobby Marks of ESPN reports that the Clippers’ anticipated tax liability will be reduced from $169 million to $59 million due to this move. The club has exceeded the tax threshold of $165 million by an amount equal to $18 million.
Trade Deadline Deal: Gordon’s Role vs Kennard’s Shooting Success
At the trade deadline in February of this year, the Clippers made a deal with the Thunder for Eric Gordon and three future second-round selections in exchange for Luke Kennard, John Wall, and a protected pick swap. The Clippers valued Eric Gordon and his ability to stretch the floor, defend more giant guards, and attack the rim more than Kennard’s potential to lead the league in 3-point shooting % for the second consecutive season. However, Kennard led the league in 3-point shooting percentage for the second consecutive season.
Eric Gordon Impact: Regular Season and Playoff Performance with the Clippers
During his second tenure, Eric Gordon played in 22 games during the regular season and averaged 11 points while shooting 42.3% from 3-point range. The Phoenix Suns eliminated the Clippers in the first round of the playoffs, and he led the team in scoring with 10.2 points per game while shooting 34.5% from outside the arc.
Young Guards Eyeing Expanded Roles as Clippers Seek to Re-sign Russell Westbrook
Terance Mann and Bones Hyland are two of the Clippers’ younger guards aiming to get more playing time this season. They have a lot of young guards who are hoping to get more playing time. Lawrence Frank, the president of basketball operations for the Clippers, stated that the team is interested in re-signing point guard Russell Westbrook, who is now a free agent and is considering the many currently available offers. The maximum amount of money they were allowed to give Russell Westbrook is their non-Bird exception of $3.8 million.
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