2016 NBA Free Agency: 1 move every team needs to make to be contenders

L.A. Clippers

The end of the season for the Clippers was almost a tragic poem. After Blake Griffin missed a significant portion of the season with a leg injury and broken hand from a fight with their equipment manager, the Clippers lost their 2-0 series lead to the Trail Blazers with another fractured hand. Chris Paul caught his hand on an opponent’s uniform and broke it, and before the end of the game, Griffin was sidelined with Paul with another leg injury.

The injuries all but closed the window on the Clippers big three’s run at a title. They lost to the Rockets after leading 3-1 last year, almost lost DeAndre Jordan to the Mavericks, and had critical injuries to Griffin and Paul. Not to mention some failed free agent experiments with Lance Stevenson and Josh Smith.

So what is next for the Clippers? Well, they should think about trading a member of their big three. With the injuries, it may be tough to sell another team on a player like Griffin or Paul. I already outlined a trade with the Celtics that could send Griffin out for a younger player like Jae Crowder and some role players, but there’s one better move than that. Trade for Carmelo Anthony.

Anthony doesn’t quite fit the bill for the Knicks rebuild any longer, and he’s due for a serious run at a title. The Clippers could use his shooting and defense in a shakeup/exchange for Blake Griffin. It keeps the Jordan-Paul pick and roll together while adding a player that can play multiple positions at wing and perhaps some time in smaller lineups at the 4. The Knicks would get back a 27-year-old that fits with their timeline better. It’s likely an undersell for Griffin, but its good enough of a return to considering. Personally, I think it’s a win-win. Melo to the Clippers. Do it, Doc.

Next: L.A. Lakers