After joining veterans like Bradley Beal, Brook Lopez, John Collins and Chris Paul, the Clippers are now preparing to compete for the championship.
But behind the scenes, the franchise reportedly laid the foundation for a massive swing in 2027, which could bring two MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo to LA
“But what they really do here is the 2027 books,” Bill Simmons said in a podcast for Bill Simmons. “It's because Giannis is a free agent in the summer of 2027 … I think it's the real thing, I think the Bucks are scared of it.”
Only Ivica Zubac is on the contract for the 2027-28 season, giving the Clippers close to the maximum cap flexibility. Simmons thinks it's not accidental.
“But I think if you're on the Clippers and in the short term, you can compete with the chance to win the punch, but in the long term, you have $20 million in the 2027 book,” he said. “It's a team that spends all the assets possible, dollars to impress the people who play for it, and I think it's their final game for the summer of 2027, and in the short term “let's try to win,” long term Giannis.”
Zach Lowe responded to the sentiment, adding: “Everyone knows the timeline of Giannis’ contract, and everyone sees the despair of the Bucks.”
Despite the chat, Milwaukee is not ready to move on from their franchise cornerstone. The Bucks reloaded in Antetokounmpo, plus Myles Turner, Cole Anthony, and Gary Harris, while resigning Bobby Portis, Kevin Porter Jr. and Jr. Gary Trent Jr.
“He's known to be good in Milwaukee and the team will be very good,” Simmons said. “When you consider that the second-place player on the team will miss the entire season, their offseason is very good… They add up and have the best players in the conference in a weak meeting, at least now, have the game.”
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