Gilbert Arena wanted to see one star from the LA Clippers Trade join the LA Lakers instead.
The LA Clippers made some big moves this offseason. After an unfortunate first-round exit in the playoffs, the franchise is remodeling its roster ahead of the 2025-26 NBA season.
The Clippers’ first step was to re-sign James Harden to a contract extension. They clearly still have faith in the whisker partnership with Kawhi Leonard.
The Clippers then continued to sign Brooke Lopez from under the Lakers’ nose. Adding a backup centre behind Ivica Zubac was a big step for them.
But the most surprising move came 24 hours ago as the Clippers landed Norman Powell on a three-team trade with John Collins.
This movement has confused some. Heat fans are excited to land Powell, while others are upset over John Collins, including Gilbert Arena.
Gilbert Arenas spoke on his podcast about the three-team trade between the LA Clippers, the Miami Heat and the Utah Jazz.
The famous La Lakers fan, Arena wanted Collins to join the Lakers, so she thought the Dalton Knecht and Louis Hachimura package would be enough to get him. But seeing Collins go to the Clippers is really frustrating.
“He was supposed to be a Laker. I thought Louis and Knecht **** were gone. I woke up this morning. I couldn’t even respond. Man, I thought we were getting him.
Collins would have been a strong addition to the Lakers. Because he is a tall force that can play well on both ends of the court. Moreover, his size allows him to defend all positions of the court.
In the end, the LA Clippers were able to act faster and get a guy. And with the tools given to him with the Clippers, Collins is a huge success.
With Collins off the table, can La Lakers follow Bradley Beale after agreeing to a deal with the Sun?
La Lakers Insider Jovan Buha believes Beal will be a bad idea for the Lakers.
Instead, the beer is linked to the Clippers, and the deal makes much more sense. With Powell gone, the Clippers are opening up at the shooting guard spot.
Adding beer was enough to make up for the goals Powell had given the Clippers last season. However, Beal and Harden’s backcoats can be too much to overcome given their defensive weaknesses.
We need to wait for what happens at Beal. But don’t be surprised to see the previous All-Star ending with the Clippers.