The Los Angeles Clippers once again find themselves at a crossroads. A hard-fought but ultimately fruitless postseason run ended in a Game 7 loss to the Denver Nuggets, marking the fourth straight year the team failed to advance past the first round. While the 2024–25 campaign featured stretches of promise and overachievement, it ultimately concluded in familiar disappointment — and familiar questions about the team’s trajectory.
One major storyline emerging from the series was James Harden’s performance. The 10-time All-Star delivered a solid regular season and contributed early in the playoffs, but his production faded when it mattered most — scoring just seven points on 2-for-8 shooting in the decisive Game 7. It’s a pattern that has followed Harden throughout his career, and it adds another layer of complexity as the Clippers consider his future. Harden holds a player option for next season, and team president Lawrence Frank made it clear the franchise hopes to negotiate a deal if he declines it.
Los Angeles Clippers Face Crucial Summer After Another Playoff Letdown
“We have a great level of appreciation for what James did this year,” Frank said. “I’m going in with the intent that if he doesn’t pick up his option, we’ll be able to reach an agreement that works well for both sides.”
The Clippers finished the regular season with a 50–32 record — their best mark in four years — and debuted their new home, the Intuit Dome. Still, they exited the playoffs early yet again, despite strong seasons from Harden, Kawhi Leonard, and a rising supporting cast led by Norman Powell.
Leonard’s health remains a central concern. After missing the season’s start due to lingering knee inflammation, he returned to average 21.5 points across 37 games. Yet his availability during critical stretches remains a gamble. This offseason marks the first time since 2020 that Leonard enters the summer healthy — a notable development, and one that Lawrence Frank hopes can propel the Clippers to another level.
“There’s another level for him out there that he’s going to get to next year,” Frank said. “We can be better with more games from Kawhi.”
Hunting for Star Power… Again
As the Clippers survey the offseason landscape, one theme has emerged: they’re in the market for another big name. According to NBA insider Matt Moore of Hardwood Paroxysm, the franchise is targeting veterans with championship pedigree — players who can elevate the team without requiring a rebuild.
“The Clippers are hunting for a name,” Moore reported. “Some superstars (older ones), some veteran guys with championship experience. They really think they can make another run at it.”
Names like Kevin Durant and Giannis Antetokounmpo may headline the rumor mill, but the feasibility of such moves varies. Antetokounmpo, still in his prime, would require assets the Clippers may no longer possess. Durant, however, could be more realistic — his market value impacted by age, recent injuries, and underwhelming results with the Phoenix Suns.
Pairing Durant with Leonard and Harden would give the Clippers a formidable wing trio, at least on paper. But the Suns’ recent struggles with a similar formula offer a cautionary tale. For the Clippers, who have already suffered the consequences of betting on aging stars with injury histories, the margin for error is razor thin.
Building a Sustainable Contender
The front office has several clear priorities heading into the summer. Beyond resolving Harden’s contract, the Clippers aim to bolster their frontcourt and add another playmaker, especially as they manage one of the league’s oldest rosters. Retaining sharpshooter Norman Powell, who shot 43% from three last season and also holds a player option, is also on the agenda.
Despite the frustrations of recent years, the Clippers still see a narrow path forward. A healthy Leonard, a motivated Harden, and a tactically savvy Ty Lue offer a foundation. But another postseason flameout — especially at the newly christened Intuit Dome — could force a deeper reevaluation.
Steve Ballmer has proven he’s willing to spend to chase a title. But spending alone won’t solve the Clippers’ problems. This summer, the challenge is clear: find the right mix of experience, durability, and playoff resolve — or risk squandering yet another season in the shadows of championship expectations.