Clippers dismissing Kawhi Leonard, James Harden talk; linked to CJ McCollum

The Clippers continue to insist their core isn’t going anywhere, even as rival teams remain unconvinced.

According to Jake Fischer of The Stein Line, the Clippers are still dismissing the idea that veteran stars Kawhi Leonard or James Harden will be made available this season. That stance hasn’t stopped opposing executives from speculating — particularly when it comes to Harden — but for now, Los Angeles is holding firm.

Where there is at least some smoke is on the margins.

Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints reported that Wizards guard CJ McCollum has been mentioned as a potential trade target for the Clippers. League sources believe McCollum could be acquired for second-round picks, though his $30.7 million cap hit complicates the mechanics.

The saving grace is that McCollum’s contract is expiring. Siegel noted the Clippers could match salary by starting with John Collins’ $26.6 million expiring deal or by stacking multiple contracts, including Bogdan Bogdanovic’s $16.2 million salary.

That lane, however, is separate from the bigger conversation. Around the league, teams may be betting that at least one star eventually shakes loose. The Clippers, for now, are betting otherwise.