With the NBA Finals over and the offseason for all NBA teams underway, the NBA draft is right around the corner.
The Clippers have two draft picks for the 2025 NBA draft: picks #30 and #51.
The Clippers hold the final pick of the first round due to a pick swap with Oklahoma City. LA does not control its own draft picks until 2030, with picks and swaps being sent out over the next five years.
Since 2019, Kobe Brown has been the only Clippers first-round draft pick due to the number of trades they’ve made. With the NBA Draft tomorrow night, look for the Clippers to draft a pro-ready forward in pick #30.
Noah Penda
One player to keep an eye on is French prospect Noah Penda.
The 6-foot-8 and 225 lbs forward has all the tools to be an immediate impact role player while he develops his game in the NBA.
NBA draft insiders say that:
“Penda, who can play multiple positions, is young enough to portend upside and might be a reliable jump shot away from offering some bench value.”
This is a good fit for the Clippers because they boasted the second-best defense in the Western Conference this past season, allowing the fewest points per game. Drafting Noah Penda could also signify that the Clippers might replace Batum in the rotation.
Drake Powell // Ryan Kalkbrenner
The Clippers’ other draft pick is in round 2, #51, which they acquired from Minnesota. The LA Clippers have their eyes on drafting UNC guard Drake Powell, who boasts strong athleticism, although he struggles on offense, but excels on defense.
Los Angeles could also draft Ryan Kalkbrenner. Kalkbrenner scores well in the paint, rebounds effectively, and is good at blocking shots on defense.
As always, the Clippers will be much different and better than they were last season, with the NBA draft featuring a lot of talent in this year’s draft class.
The Clippers’ front office is looking to start the offseason strong by drafting the right players the team needs.
PHOTO: Aaron Doster/Imagn Images
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