The Los Angeles Clippers acquired the pesky Lance Stephenson early this offseason, and he’ll be looking for a fresh start after a disappointing season with the Charlotte Hornets. After somewhat of a breakout season in 2013-14 with the Indiana Pacers, Stephenson earned himself a decent payday with the Hornets. However, things didn’t quite go the way Michael Jordan and the Hornets had planned.

Stephenson went from averaging 13.8 PPG, 7.2 RPG and 4.6 APG with Indiana to averaging just 8.2 PPG, 4.5 RPG and 3.9 APG with Charlotte. He shot just 37.6 percent from the field, but he was even more abysmal from behind the arc, making just over 17 percent of his attempts.

The Hornets were counting on him to play a major role with them, Stephenson simply did not meet their expectations. Granted, he missed some time due to injury, but there was never a point where he appeared to be the Stephenson that made the Pacers into a championship-contending team.

Now with the Clippers, Stephenson has the opportunity to start off with a clean slate and he must take advantage of the opportunity. In order for the Clippers to get the most out of him, they need to bring him off the bench. Stephenson is a guy who can provide energy off the bench and a spark defensively. He’s a great rebounder at the two-guard position and is a fierce competitor.

Stephenson can turn his career around. Let’s not forget he’s only 25 years old. He just needs to be in the perfect environment, and Los Angeles might be just that. Playing under Doc Rivers and alongside veterans like Chris Paul and Paul Pierce, he can mature as both a player and a person. If Stephenson has his mind in the right place, he can revive his young career.

Brandon Austin is a writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @BMoreThanGreat, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.