New Clippers Rumors on NBA Free-Agent Targets amid Kawhi Leonard Trade Buzz

If nothing else, the Los Angeles Clippers could have a busy few days ahead.

The Stein Line's Jake Fischer and Marc Stein reported Sunday the team "could choose to be quite active in unrestricted free agency if they opt to function as a team with salary-cap space."

This comes as seven-time All-Star Kawhi Leonard is a source of increasing speculation. Shedding his $50.3 million salary could give L.A. some more spending flexibility depending on what comes back.

Fischer and Stein reported a reunion with veteran forward John Collins on the table, though the San Antonio Spurs, Orlando Magic and Philadelphia 76ers are among the teams that could chase him.

An earlier report from The Stein Line pointed to Los Angeles' interest in restricted free agent Peyton Watson if it can create the cap room necessary to make a competitive offer.

On the trade front, the Clippers tried and failed to engage the Magic on a deal for center Goga Bitadze. Fischer and Stein said the Magic are "bracing for the loss of Moritz Wagner," which is leading them to put a premium on Bitadze.

As much as Los Angeles will want to stay competitive, the bigger priority this summer is probably keeping the books clean for next offseason.

Six players are signed for 2027-28, while Jordan Miller and Kobe Sanders are restricted free agents. L.A.'s cap space is on pace to be in the nine figures, and there are some notable names that could hit the market.

Even if the Clippers can't go big-game hunting in free agency, they'll be in a great position to execute a blockbuster trade.

For a long time, the organization was committed to Leonard and Paul George's timeline because it had no alternative pathway. Now, it can pivot to a younger roster led by Darius Garland and first-round pick Keaton Wagler.

That doesn't preclude L.A. from speeding up its timeline at a later date, but their focus right now is probably on 2027 and beyond.