LA Clippers Prepare for 2025 NBA Draft with Key Priorities

LOS ANGELES, CA — The LA Clippers are gearing up for the 2025 NBA Draft and hold the last pick (30th overall) of the first round, as well as a second-round pick (51st overall). This marks the second time in three years the Clippers have found themselves in this position.

Since the Clippers drafted Shai Gilgeous-Alexander in 2018-19, they have struggled to develop rookie talent. In contrast, other NBA teams have seen multiple 1,000-minute rookies over the last six seasons. Commenting on their strategy, Clippers President of Basketball Operations Lawrence Frank emphasized the need for ballhandling help and frontcourt presence, while showing an interest in selecting the best player available.

Frank stated, “We are looking for high-upside players who will spend a year developing before contributing more significantly by 2026.” The Clippers hope to improve their production in key areas, especially considering they ranked 23rd in turnover percentage last season.

The current pre-draft depth chart reveals the team’s priorities. It includes star players like James Harden and Kawhi Leonard, but the need for a reliable point guard is pressing. The Clippers have not drafted a point guard since acquiring Jason Preston, who has struggled with injuries.

Prospects such as Egor Demin and Israel Saraf are being considered, with Saraf offering the potential to be a solid passer. Additionally, the Clippers aim to bolster their rim protection, having ranked 23rd in this category, and are rumored to be interested in centers like Ryan Kalkbrenner, who could make an immediate impact.

Beyond ballhandling and rim protection, the Clippers are also looking at forwards who can defend without fouling. Options like Nique Clifford and Jaden Ivey have been mentioned as potential fits.

As the draft approaches, the Clippers are entering a critical offseason. They hope to make strategic selections that will reshape their roster and set them up for success in the coming seasons.