What happens if the Los Angeles Clippers succeed in acquiring guard Austin Rivers?
With reports flying Sunday of a possible deal as the Boston Celtics make swing a three-team trade, the Clippers appear close to getting a versatile backcourt player they need.
The Celtics complex transaction could lead to another three-team trade. They would get Rivers from the New Orleans Pelicans in the first transaction, and then send him to the Clippers in what could be shaping up as a multi-team deal.
Speaking of the possibility of coaching his son, the Clippers' Doc Rivers would be open to the possibility, the Los Angeles Times reported.
"I think a year ago I probably wouldn't," Rivers said of coaching his son, "but I think I would for sure. I think this team could handle that. He's a downhill guard, which is something we need, so I certainly would."
The Times also raised a problem for the Clippers. To add Rivers, they must dispose of a player. It suggests Jordan Farmer as a possibility, if they can find a team willing to take him and his contract, reportedly for $2.1 million this season and next.
Thus, barring the Celtics doing the deal straight up, a third team would enter the picture.
The Clippers' goal is simple: win. They are more talented than their rivals, the Los Angeles Lakers, who like the Celtics are faced with rebuilding their roster. Given their standing in the Los Angeles market, they could use all the excitement they can generate.
Consider: The Los Angeles Daily News says even with the better of the market's NBA teams, the Clippers aren't fully embraces by fans.
Another point to consider: CBS Sports says the Clippers' biggest need is on the wing, not at guard. Farmar can't find minutes; will it be any different with Rivers as Chris Paul's backup, even with his ability to play as a complement?
To refine the Clippers' needs, NBC Sports says they are short on support for their big men, especially in help for defense on the wing.
One more point to consider: Rivers is better as a shooting guard than point guard. At 6-4, he might be too small for small forward. The Pelicans decided to part company, the New Orleans Times-Picayune reported, because he didn't succeed despite multiple opportunities. Especially worth noting: Rivers hasn't progressed as a shooter.
It's the Clippers call on whether to make the deal.