With limited cap flexibility and a thin frontcourt rotation behind Ivica Zubac, the Los Angeles Clippers have identified Boston Celtics center Luke Kornet as a free agency target. But they aren’t alone. According to multiple league sources, the San Antonio Spurs are also expected to pursue the 7-footer aggressively, potentially forcing Boston into a difficult financial decision.
Los Angeles Clippers, Spurs Interested In C Luke Kornet
Kornet’s Value Rises After Career Year
Coming off his most productive NBA season, Kornet played 73 games for the Celtics and averaged 6.0 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 1.0 block per game on a career-best 66.8% shooting. He delivered a standout playoff performance with a 7-block game against the Knicks and has become more than just a meme in Boston. At 29, he’s entering his prime and has earned serious consideration for a multi-year deal.
Spurs and Clippers Each Have Unique Pitch
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For San Antonio, Kornet offers a stable and experienced option behind Victor Wembanyama. The Spurs, who missed out on Kristaps Porziņģis, have cap room and a clear need for depth. The Clippers, meanwhile, struggled to find consistent backup minutes at center and see Kornet as a steady rotation piece. Both teams could offer more security than Boston, which remains hamstrung by luxury tax concerns.
Boston’s Dilemma Deepens
The Celtics would like to retain Kornet, as Brad Stevens emphasized last week. However, their proximity to the second tax apron may limit their ability to match outside offers. A full mid-level offer from San Antonio or LA could be enough to lure Kornet away — a scenario that would significantly impact Boston’s offseason plans.
For now, the race is on — and Boston is firmly on the clock.