The Los Angeles Clippers were looking a little lost when it seemed apparent that DeAndre Jordan was going to sign with a different team. They still had two elite players in Chris Paul and Blake Griffin, and had enough talent to make the playoffs as a lower seed. However, it would have been tough for them to beat one of the top seeds, and they would no longer be a serious contender for the championship. Yet Jordan had a change of heart, and decided that he wanted to stay in Los Angeles, which completely changes the organization’s future.

Bringing back Jordan gives the team a top defensive option down low who can change a game on the defensive end. He is extremely long and athletic, and makes it tough for opponents to finish in the paint. He possesses unique quickness for a big man allowing him to help on the perimeter. He also is improving on the offensive side, and has expressed an interest for more touches, which could be a positive as he is a dominant finisher when given space.

Although Jordan is the big fish who makes this an excellent free agent period for the Clippers, the team was also able to add depth with Paul Pierce and Wesley Johnson. Pierce is huge for the team as he brings a certain “swagger” with him that the team needs, and is capable of hitting big shots. The team has faded down the stretch of games, but Pierce is the kind of player who can get them a bucket when it is most needed. Johnson has not made much of an impact so far in the league, but he is an athletic wing who gives them another option on defense and may fit in better with a more star-studded team.

This could have been a devastating free agency for the Clippers, but bringing back Jordan makes them a contender. They were also able to add decent depth, and even made a bold trade that could pay off for the team later in the year. They are currently in discussions with several other players, hoping to add a couple more pieces to the roster. But as a whole, the Clippers needed to improve their second unit, keep a star, and add a veteran, and they have done all three.

Final Free Agency Grade: A