NBA: How Does Iguodala Fit In With Clippers If Lakers Get Smith?

The 2019-20 NBA season is on with the Los Angeles Clippers jumping the gun on the Los Angeles Lakers, 112-102. Of course, one game hardly provides a complexion of things to come. But the first game does show off what things teams need to do to stay competitive.

For the Lakers and the Clippers, adding another wingman could help. Among the names the come to mind are J.R. Smith, Carmelo Anthony, and Andre Iguodala. Of the three, the case of 35-year-old Iguodala comes with a catch. He needs to cut ties with the Memphis Grizzlies first before suiting up for another team.

In a previous report, it was mentioned that the Grizzlies and Iguodala have a mutual understanding. Memphis will not force the three-time NBA champion into playing with them as they wait on offers. Iguodala is fine sitting it out for now. The next question here is up to where will his patient run?

The Rockets have passed on Iguodala and the belief is that the two Los Angeles teams will end up with him, The Athletic reported. However, the Lakers are reportedly checking out Smith right now. The only thing that may need to be settled is his health and conditioning. If all that is clear, chances are high that the Lakers may settle for the former Cleveland Cavalier swingman.

That said, there could only be one team standing in the end. The Clippers could end up signing Iguodala once things are cleared out with the Grizzlies. Hence, it will be interesting how Memphis and Iguodala handle it. Will there be a trade or a buyout?

The Grizzlies are looking towards the future, meaning they are open to future picks or young players. So far, nothing close to that has happened. It remains unknown how long the patience of Iguodala will last. Should nothing happen soon, there is a chance that may seek a buyout from Memphis.

Obviously, this is something the Clippers and even the Lakers are waiting for. Iguodala doesn't seem to have any plans of calling it a career just yet. Even at his age, he has proven he can still play NBA ball even if he comes off the bench.

Ironically, the Clippers face the Golden State Warriors next on Oct. 26 at the Chase Center in San Francisco. Tip-off is at 10:30 p.m EDT.