The Los Angeles Clippers started their 2023-24 season with Championship aspirations. The Clippers had a star-studded roster of players such as Kawhi Leonard, James Harden, Russell Westbrook & Paul George. But things didn’t go according to their plan. The Dallas Mavericks ended the Clippers’ 2023-24 season with a convincing 4-2 playoff series victory.

This season, things haven’t gone according to their plan. Recent reports have suggested a behind-the-scenes struggle between Westbrook and his diminished role. This has been hinting towards a potential split from the Clippers in the near future.

Russell Westbrook’s struggle and frustration

Russell Westbrook adopted a reserve role to help the team navigate the James Harden trade early this season. With him being sidelined, the Clippers struggled, making the sacrifice more challenging for the ex-MVP than it was publicly portrayed. The Clippers have centered around Westbrook’s acceptance of a lesser role, suggesting he even requested it. This act solidified his status as a team player. But according to recent reports, there is dissatisfaction beneath the surface.

Westbrook’s $8 million contract with the Clippers is a significant step-down from the colossal $206 million extension he signed with the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2018. This decline in salary hints at a compromise. Westbrook accepted a veteran minimum deal to stay with the Clippers. He has performed well off the bench, featuring in 89 games and averaging 12.2 points, 5.2 assists and 5.0 rebounds per game.

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Paul George trade rumors and Kawhi Leonard’s flailing trust

The Westbrook situation is a piece of a larger puzzle for the Clippers. Rumors surrounding Paul George’s future with the team have also surfaced. George has been a key contributor to the Clippers’ success. He has featured for 269 games for the Clippers, averaging 23.0 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game. His name in trade rumors creates a sense of uncertainty surrounding the Clippers’ core.

Leonard, the Clippers’ other star player, has battled injuries throughout his career. His trust in the team’s ability to compete for a championship is uncertain. If Westbrook’s unhappiness and George’s trade rumors are continuing to pop up, it could result in Leonard leaving the Clippers.

The Clippers are in a precarious position which they must navigate delicately. The upcoming pre-season will be crucial for the Clippers. These rifts will determine their season for the forthcoming years. All eyes will be on the Clippers’ front office to see if they can navigate these issues or if a significant roster shakeup.