Nicolas Batum Signing Officially Announced by Clippers
The LA Clippers have spent much of the offseason working toward putting last season’s playoff exit behind them. The pathway has guided the franchise toward some massive changes over the abbreviated offseason before the 2020-21 campaign. The Clippers have now added another pivotal player to the mix by signing former Charlotte Hornets forward Nicolas Batum, according to ESPN.
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The LA Clippers added some needed veteran depth at forward by signing Nicolas Batum on Tuesday.
The 31-year-old joins the Clippers shortly after the Hornets elected to waive and stretch the remaining $27 million on the final year of his five-year, $120 million deal. Batum’s addition brings added depth to the forward position behind Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, in likely a reserve role.
He never lived up to his massive contract with Charlotte as he struggled to fulfill a primary scoring role. Instead, he dealt with nagging injuries that significantly impacted his play. Batum is coming off a rough campaign. Last season, he averaged 3.6 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 3.0 assists in 22 games played.
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He will have a clean slate with the Clippers. As a result, he can become a pivotal piece to the puzzle to a potential title contender. Batum is the latest veteran addition for LA this offseason as the team has brought aboard Serge Ibaka and re-signed Reggie Jackson.
He will likely play off the bench next to Lou Williams by filling the offensive void left by Montrezl Harrell and JaMychal Green’s departures. The Clippers are expected to be among the top teams in the Western Conference with a chance to dethrone the LA Lakers.
