Clippings: LA reportedly showing interest in free agent Paul Millsap

Just four years ago in 2017, Paul Millsap was honored with his fourth straight NBA All-Star selection, posting a career high scoring average of 18.1 points as a member of the Hawks. Now, at age 36, he finds himself as one of the most accomplished free agents left on the board, garnering a respectable amount of attention from teams looking to employ him this upcoming season, per Shams Charania.

Aside from the Clippers, Millsap is also being pursued by the Nets, Warriors, and Bulls, all teams that are aiming to impress fans in the regular season and playoffs. While his time with Denver might not stand out to the casual observer, it has become clear that his adaptive play style could still make a big impact in today’s NBA.

He holds all the trademark qualities of a prized Clipper role player—the ability to switch on defense, a quality shooting stroke for a stretch forward, and a team-oriented mindset. If the Clippers were to acquire Millsap, he would most likely share minutes with Marcus Morris Sr., Nicolas Batum, and potentially Ivica Zubac and Serge Ibaka. His strong frame allows him to hold his own as a small-ball center, but he still is comfortable enough on the perimeter to move to the outside at times. The Clippers’ reputation for revitalizing the careers of players who were brushed aside could also help Millsap maintain his production from years prior, ensuring that his age doesn’t threaten his usage.

However, his apparent desire for a deal worth more than the veteran’s minimum may pose a challenge to the teams pursuing him. The Clippers used their mid-level exception on Justise Winslow, Jason Preston, and Brandon Boston Jr., so it is unclear if they can perform the financial gymnastics needed to acquire Millsap on a deal that satisfies everyone involved.

If the Clippers can end up signing Millsap, it would add more depth to a switchable frontcourt that will be seeing a lot more minutes with Kawhi Leonard’s absence. For the team that ultimately ends up being the new home for the All-Star forward, however, it’s clear that they will enjoy the underrated talents of an impactful player.

More news for Tuesday:

• Read all of Shams’ column in the Athletic here for more news across the NBA.
• FiveThirtyEight’s new NBA player projections marry statistics and results like no other—check out the projections for our Clippers!
• Kevin Love reportedly has no interest in a buyout with Cleveland, ensuring the team will have a roster packed with big men.
• The 76ers are still locked on Damian Lillard as part of a potential package for Ben Simmons.
• NBA Hall of Famer Earl Monroe is set to open a basketball-specialized school in New York City, offering basketball-related career paths and curriculum.