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According to ESPN’s Marc Stein, the Clippers are among several playoff teams interested in signing free agent forward Omri Casspi, who was bought out by the Pelicans after breaking his thumb in his first game in New Orleans.
Veteran swingman Omri Casspi has been cleared to resume basketball activities after his recent thumb injury, league sources say,
— Marc Stein (@ESPNSteinLine) March 14, 2017
Casspi’s original recovery timeline had him projected to be out until April, but recent reports indicated that he was well ahead of schedule. After spending two and a half seasons with the Kings, Casspi was sent to New Orleans at this year’s deadline as part of the blockbuster deal for his friend DeMarcus Cousins.
Sources say Casspi is now evaluating his options and has drawn interest from multiple playoff teams, including the Grizzlies and Clippers.
— Marc Stein (@ESPNSteinLine) March 14, 2017
The Clippers have been in Casspi trade rumors in the past, although it should be noted that he was represented by Clippers nemesis Dan Fegan until just a few days ago. Whether Fegan’s termination will affect his buyout destination is unknown.
The Grizzlies can probably offer Casspi a larger role and more playing time than the Clippers can guarantee, but LA will probably be a postseason contender and a threat to make a deep playoff run.
If Casspi agrees to a deal with the Clippers, Alan Anderson is the player most likely to be released in order to create roster space. The 6’9” Casspi would likely take Wes Johnson’s spot in the rotation as a smallball 4; while his defense isn’t at the same level as WeJo’s, he brings outside shooting (40% from deep over the last three years) and the ability to attack off the dribble and make plays for himself and others.