The Los Angeles Clippers have begun a major rebuild following Kawhi Leonard’s controversial departure. Leonard was finally traded to the Toronto Raptors for Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, and two first-round picks earlier this week.
The trade was delayed for several weeks while the NBA investigated the Clippers over salary cap circumvention, but the matter has now been resolved. The Clippers have forfeited five draft picks, while owner Steve Ballmer has been suspended for one year.
The Clippers now face a long road back to contention following the NBA’s sanctions and Leonard’s exit. The good news in this precarious situation is that they already have some talented players on the roster heading into the 2026-27 season.
LA Clippers’ projected starting five after Kawhi Leonard trade
The Los Angeles Clippers are no longer positioned to contend after Kawhi Leonard’s departure, but at least they received some valuable assets. Along with the Raptors’ draft picks and Gradey Dick, they added Brandon Ingram.
Ingram will be one of two new players in the Clippers’ starting five, alongside rookie Keaton Wagler. Ingram will likely be the leading scorer, contributing around 20-25 points per game, while Wagler learns his trade.
| Position | Starter | Bench |
| Point Guard | Darius Garland | Kris Dunn |
| Shooting Guard | Keaton Wagler | Bradley Beal |
| Small Forward | Brandon Ingram | Max Strus |
| Power Forward | Derrick Jones Jr. | Rui Hachimura |
| Center | Brook Lopez | Isaiah Jackson |
Darius Garland will start at point guard following his trade from the Cleveland Cavaliers last season. The 26-year-old will be keen to make his third All-Star appearance, which could also boost his value if the Clippers decide to explore another trade.
Derrick Jones Jr. and Brook Lopez will provide plenty of experience to the Clippers’ frontcourt. Given that they do not own their first-round pick this season, they might as well try to establish a winning culture and push for a Play-In spot.
Solid bench options such as Bradley Beal, Max Strus, and Rui Hachimura should help ensure the Clippers are not at the bottom of the Western Conference. With Tyronn Lue at the helm, they could push for around 40 wins despite their well-documented off-court controversies.
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