The Los Angeles Clippers are reportedly showing significant interest in Boston Celtics star Jaylen Brown as trade talks involving Kawhi Leonard and the Toronto Raptors intensify. One league executive indicated that the Clippers "want Brown bad," positioning him as a potential high-profile replacement should Leonard depart.
Leonard is entering the final year of his contract, and reports suggest the Raptors are in serious trade discussions with the Clippers to bring him back to the franchise he led to the 2019 NBA championship. Leonard's camp is reportedly seeking a long-term deal, with the Raptors appearing more amenable to meeting that demand than Los Angeles.
If a trade involving Leonard materializes, the Clippers are not expected to undergo a full rebuilding phase. Owner Steve Ballmer has historically shown little inclination toward such a strategy. The team's reported pursuit of Brown aligns with this approach, aiming to replace one prominent player with another.
Brown, who was named the 2024 NBA Finals MVP, is a younger, two-way star in his prime. The five-time All-Star is coming off his most statistically productive season, averaging 28.7 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game, while shooting 47.7% from the field. His playoff experience and versatility on the wing are qualities the Clippers would seek if Leonard were no longer on the roster.
The Celtics' current situation also fuels speculation surrounding Brown. Boston has reportedly been open to discussing Brown as part of potential roster reshaping around Jayson Tatum. Brown has not formally requested a trade, and acquiring him would necessitate a substantial return package from any interested team. He has three years and approximately $183 million remaining on his contract.
As it stands, the Clippers' ability to construct a package for Brown solely on their own might be challenging, particularly after drafting Keaton Wagler with the No. 5 pick and signaling a focus on developing younger talent. However, a trade involving Leonard could alter this dynamic. If the Clippers acquire players or draft capital from Toronto in a Leonard deal, those assets could potentially be rerouted to Boston as part of a larger, multi-team trade.
This scenario suggests that a three-team arrangement involving Leonard, Brown, and Toronto could become a storyline to monitor, although no agreement is currently believed to be imminent. The Clippers' apparent strategy appears to be ensuring they do not lose a star player without securing another significant talent in return. Should they part ways with a Finals MVP, Jaylen Brown is being identified as a prime candidate to fill that role.