Nicolas Batum, LA Clippers. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports

Most of the NBA world was sent into a frenzy the moment NBA free agency officially opened up for business. But while several NBA teams anxiously waited outside the door of countless superstar-caliber players, in the hopes of pilfering them from their former teams, the LA Clippers expressed no desire to do so.

The moment they were allowed, LA focused their efforts on two salient cogs that have contributed to their success over the past few seasons in Nicolas Batum and Amir Coffey.

After watching Coffey grow and develop since 2019, the 6’7” shooting guard stepped onto the court with confidence this past season. With more of an offensive load placed on his plate, he responded in kind, averaging nine points on 45.3% from the field. In turn, the rapidly developing guard signed a three-year deal worth $11 million.

As for Batum, the veteran forward may have opted out of the final year of his contract just a few weeks ago, he never intended on leaving LA. On countless occasions, the versatile defender expressed gratitude for a Clippers franchise that relativized his career.

Although several championship-caliber teams expressed interest, including the Boston Celtics, last year’s runner-up, LA refused to let him walk out the door. Officially, Batum will now return on a two-year deal worth $22 million.

In his second season in LA, Batum stepped up to the plate in the absence of Kawhi Leonard. He would go on to average 8.3 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.7 assists. Considering his stellar production and LA’s stacked roster, the Clippers brass is focusing their efforts on keeping their core intact.

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