Clippers Retain Milos Teodosic Amid Kawhi Leonard Rumors After Deadline Passed

The Los Angeles Clippers guaranteed the contract of guard Milos Teodosic, which will pay him $6.3 million for the 2018-19 season.

The Clippers could have waived Teodosic by Sunday's deadline and been on the hook for just $2.1 million of that salary, per Spotrac.

Teodosic, 31, previously exercised his player option for the 2018-19 campaign after spending last season in Los Angeles. He averaged 9.5 points and 4.6 assists during a rookie season that came after a successful run in Europe.

"So far, I really enjoy," Teodosic said of his transition to the NBA, per Broderick Turner of the Los Angeles Times. "I'm happy to be here, and I really enjoy playing with the best players in the world and against the best players in the world. I'm happy that I'm here."

The Clippers have a bit of a crowded backcourt after drafting Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jerome Robinson in June. However, they already traded Austin Rivers to the Washington Wizards. The team could also release Patrick Beverley from his non-guaranteed contract, though that seems unlikely given Beverley's skill level and cheap contract ($5 million).

Odds are they will try to use Teodosic in a mentorship role with their young guards. He's a heady passer and came over with the reputation as one of the smartest basketball players in the world. Combine his offensive IQ with Beverley's defensive tenacity, and there is instantly a pair of players who can instill good habits.

Teodosic could also be used as trade fodder, especially near the deadline when teams will be looking for veteran help in a playoff push.