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NBA Free Agency: Three Realistic Options for the Clippers

By Jason Reed

Mar 1, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Clippers forward Blake Griffin and guard Chris Paul watch on the bench in the final minute during a NBA basketball game against the Houston Rockets at Staples Center. The Rockets defeated the Clippers 122-103. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 1, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Clippers forward Blake Griffin and guard Chris Paul watch on the bench in the final minute during a NBA basketball game against the Houston Rockets at Staples Center. The Rockets defeated the Clippers 122-103. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /
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Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports /

Tony Allen

Tony Allen may not be the most appealing player to attempt to sign during this NBA free agency, but his defensive minded play would be key for the Clippers in taking their game to the next level. According to Basketball-Reference, the Clippers have the 17th best defense in the league. If they want to take their game to the next level, they need to be better than league average.

Tony Allen would be a pretty quick fix to this problem that the Lakers are having, and with his age would cost the team an affordable amount. At 35 years of age, teams are likely going to avoid Allen, leaving the Clippers with a much greater chance of securing the defensive star.

It works out perfectly with the dynamic of the team as well. With J.J Reddick likely out the door via free agency, it would place Allen in the starting shooting guard role. With great sixth man Jamal Crawford, Allen’s minutes won’t be as heavy. This will lead to him being more well rested and allowing his defensive prowess to persist.

Allen’s 1.7 steals per game don’t justify his ability to defend the basketball. Tony Allen is one of the most grittiest, physical defenders in the game right now. This is exactly the dynamic the Clippers need next season. Sure, he only scores nine points per game, but the Clippers don’t need him to score a ton.

Tony Allen may be the smartest, most realistic move for the Clippers during this NBA Free Agency. With an opening occurring, Tony Allen should be the guy to fill it.

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