Clippers Set to Secure Multi-Year Deal with Kai Jones Before Playoffs

The Los Angeles Clippers, securing the fourth seed in the Western Conference playoffs, are preparing for their first-round clash with the Dallas Mavericks. To bolster their roster for the playoffs, they've made a move by signing center Kai Jones, as reported by ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski. This signing comes after the team waived guard Josh Primo to create space on the roster. Since Jones wasn't on a standard NBA contract before the March 1st deadline, he remains eligible to play in the playoffs.

With the addition of Jones, the Clippers now boast three centers on their standard roster, alongside Mason Plumlee and Daniel Theis. How Coach Ty Lue distributes minutes for the backup center position during the playoffs will be intriguing, as neither Theis nor Plumlee has firmly secured that role. While Jones may not immediately see playoff minutes, given the hierarchy behind Theis, Plumlee, and P.J. Tucker, he remains an eligible option should the need arise.

While this move may appear geared towards the future rather than an immediate playoff boost, Jones will contribute to the Clippers' championship aspirations.


Jones, chosen as the 19th overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, gained notoriety for a peculiar social media outburst in September. In this incident, he openly criticized his Charlotte Hornets team and teammates, boldly proclaiming himself the greatest basketball player of all time. His online behavior culminated in a trade request, ultimately leading to his release from the Hornets.

In March, the Philadelphia 76ers signed Jones to a ten-day contract, primarily assigning him to their G-League affiliate, the Delaware Blue Coats. Despite this turbulent episode, his time with the team proceeded without incident. Encouraged by his stability, the Clippers have now included him in their playoff roster, hopeful that he can fulfill his potential with their squad.

Source Cluthpoints : Clippers set to sign Kai Jones to multi-year deal ahead of playoffs
Source Sports Illustrated : LA Clippers Make Roster Move Before Playoffs