Clippers Face Tough Decision on Bogdan Bogdanovic Amid Career-Worst Season
Bogdan Bogdanovic has long been known as a dependable scorer and a savvy veteran presence off the bench. But this season in Los Angeles, things just haven’t clicked.
On a $16 million contract, the Clippers were counting on him to be their go-to sixth man-someone who could stabilize the second unit and provide reliable offense. Instead, they’re getting a version of Bogdanovic that looks unfamiliar: inconsistent, unhealthy, and far from the impact player he’s been in years past.
Let’s be clear-Bogdanovic has had a solid NBA career since making his debut in the 2017-18 season, following a strong run overseas. He’s typically been a model of consistency, especially in terms of shooting efficiency and scoring output.
But this year, those numbers have taken a sharp dip. He’s averaging just 9.1 points per game on 39.1% shooting from the field-both career lows.
For a player who’s built his reputation on smooth shooting and offensive versatility, that’s a major red flag.
Injuries haven’t helped. Bogdanovic missed significant time in November and had an early-season setback as well.
Availability has been a major issue, and when he has suited up, the results have been underwhelming. His recent outing against the Memphis Grizzlies saw him post seven points, three rebounds, and three assists on 33.3% shooting.
While he showed flashes against the Rockets and Timberwolves, the sample sizes were small, and the consistency just isn’t there.
What’s striking is how different he looks on the floor. Last season, Bogdanovic was confident and creative-able to create his own shot, whether it was a smooth side-step three or a controlled pull-up from mid-range.
This year, that rhythm seems off. His form is still clean-when he shoots, it looks good-but too many of those shots are rimming out.
There’s a hesitation in his game now, a stiffness that wasn’t there before.
Part of the issue might be fit. With James Harden and Kawhi Leonard commanding so much defensive attention, Bogdanovic is often the beneficiary of open looks.
But he hasn’t been able to capitalize. He was never just a spot-up shooter-he thrived when he had the ball in his hands, when he could read a defender and make a move.
That part of his game has gone missing.
And that puts the Clippers in a tough spot.
President of Basketball Operations Lawrence Frank is already exploring trade options, particularly with the recent availability of veteran point guard Chris Paul. But if the Clippers are serious about reshaping their roster for a deep playoff run, Bogdanovic’s name has to be in those conversations as well. He’s not producing at the level his role and contract demand, and the team can’t afford to wait and hope things turn around.
If there’s a market for Bogdanovic, the Clippers need to explore it. If there isn’t, then it might be time to consider packaging him with another movable piece-like John Collins, who still holds value around the league-and look for a deal that brings back a more reliable contributor.
This isn’t about giving up on Bogdanovic as a player. He’s had too strong of a career to be written off entirely.
But right now, the Clippers are chasing wins in a loaded Western Conference, and they need every rotation spot to count. If Bogdanovic can’t give them that edge anymore, then it’s time to make a move.
The signs are there. Now it’s on the front office to act.