Clippers Rumors: Isaiah Thomas Won't Stay with LA After Trade from Wizards

The Los Angeles Clippers reportedly won't be keeping Isaiah Thomas after landing him in a three-team trade that also saw them acquire power forward Marcus Morris, according to David Aldridge of The Athletic:

The move will leave them with two roster spots available, which could be used on current free agents or players who become available on the buyout market as they look to solidify their bench for a title run. 

Despite the expected departure of Thomas, the Clippers have arguably the best roster in the NBA:

"

Yahoo Sources: Clippers intend to go with an extremely versatile starting lineup of Patrick Beverley, Paul George, Kawhi Leonard, Marcus Morris and Ivica Zubac.

— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) February 6, 2020"

Obviously, the Clippers don't see Thomas as a good fit. The team already has a starting point guard (Patrick Beverley) in place and two players off the bench (Lou Williams, Landry Shamet) capable of handling those duties. 

Plus, even if the team is looking for more depth at lead guard, Thomas would have been hunted on defense by opposing contenders. That has long been the main issue for the 5'9" point guard, and the sort of weakness the versatile and wing-heavy Clippers appear to be fortifying against. 

Few teams will be able to switch as easily as these Clippers. And few teams, if any, have a collection of lockdown defenders like the Clippers possess in Kawhi Leonard, Paul George and Beverley.

The Clippers have built a roster capable of winning a title behind a superstar combination in Leonard and George, stifling defense and impressive depth. It's fair to argue that Thomas wouldn't have offered much of a benefit in any of those areas to the Clippers.

To another team, however, he might be a valuable piece off the bench. It won't be surprising if he's quickly scooped up on the buyout market.