Clippers Staying Put At Deadline With Kawhi Leonard James Harden

Merlin sees Tyronn Lue expecting little trade activity from the Clippers at the Feb. 5 deadline. Lue said, "If a team's trying to trade for you, then somebody wants you," and added, "I don't see much movement. So I think we'll be good." Los Angeles sits 10th at 20-24 but has won 14 of 17 behind Kawhi Leonard and James Harden, and the team does not own its own first round pick, so selling makes little sense. Merlin notes the surge buys patience, yet clear weaknesses remain. The Clippers are the league's worst in transition at 18.2 points per game and could use more athleticism and speed. Expect the front office to favor a small, targeted upgrade over a shakeup unless an unexpected offer changes the mood.