The L.A. Clippers have improved more than any other club this season. It's truly amazing what a Chris Paul can do! But no one believes that the Clippers are satisfied with a playoff bid and a quick exit -- L.A. has CP3 through 2012-13, and wants to win big before he becomes a free agent.
NBA Trade Deadline 2012: Clippers Need Wing Help, But Could Be Content
Do they have enough right now, or should additional moves be made at the trade deadline?
NEEDS & TARGETS
The Chauncey Billups injury was a massive blow to the club. Not only is replacing Billups with Randy Foye a massive downgrade -- as of Saturday, Foye was shooting 35.7 percent as a starter with an effective field goal percentage of just 43.7 percent -- but it puts more pressure on CP3 and Mo Williams to score. Neither is particularly shy, but each would be more comfortable with a viable player at the starting two-guard.
As such, and because Caron Butler hasn't lit the world aflame, a wing could be mighty useful for L.A. But despite Foye's problems, offense hasn't been the issue for the Clippers: it is defense where L.A. struggles. According to 82games.com, opposing small forwards are shooting an eFG of 51 percent against the Clippers, far too high. But unless the Clippers intend to give up on someone like Eric Bledsoe, a path to a solution at that spot seems unlikely to be broached.
SALARY CAP SITUATION
The Clippers have a salary level of $64 million, according to ShamSports.com, about $6 million under the luxury tax line. L.A. also already has $50 million locked up in 2012-13.
For more on the Clippers, visit Clips Nation and SB Nation Los Angeles.
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