Quick Read
- Bogdan Bogdanović is expected to part ways with the LA Clippers after the current NBA season.
- Persistent lower extremity injuries have severely limited his availability and on-court performance.
- He has played only 17 games this season, averaging 7.6 points and shooting 37.2% from the field.
- His $16 million contract is deemed not commensurate with his current production.
- The Clippers are likely to decline his 2026-27 team option in the offseason.
LOS ANGELES (Azat TV) – Bogdan Bogdanović, once considered an integral part of the LA Clippers’ success, is now grappling with a significantly uncertain future as persistent lower extremity injuries have severely hampered his availability and on-court performance. The Serbian guard, whose contract includes a team option for the 2026-27 season, is widely expected to part ways with the Clippers this offseason, marking a challenging period for a player previously noted for his dynamic contributions in the NBA.
Bogdanović’s current struggles with the Clippers are starkly evident in his limited playing time and statistical output this season. He has appeared in only 17 games, posting an average of just 7.6 points per contest. His shooting percentages have also dipped considerably, hitting 37.2% from the field and 32.4% from beyond the arc. These figures represent a significant decline for a player who, in prior seasons, was a reliable offensive threat and an efficient scorer.
A Steep Decline in Production and Availability
The core issue for Bogdanović has been a series of unpredictable and uncontrollable injury concerns, primarily affecting his lower extremities. These setbacks have rendered him largely unavailable for the Clippers, effectively relegating him to the bench for the majority, if not all, of the remainder of the current season. This lack of consistent presence on the court has made his $16 million contract a significant liability for the team, as reported by Clipperholics.
During the recent NBA trade deadline, there was speculation among fans that Bogdanović would be moved. His contract situation, with a team option for the subsequent season, typically makes players appealing to contending teams looking for roster flexibility. However, his ongoing injury problems deterred potential suitors, as no team was willing to ‘roll the dice’ on a player whose availability could not be guaranteed. Consequently, the Clippers found themselves unable to offload the veteran guard.
Past Contributions and Future Potential
Before his current injury woes, Bogdanović was a vital component of the Clippers’ lineup, lauded for his efficiency, confidence, and energetic play. Fans and teammates alike appreciated his contributions, a stark contrast to his earlier tenure with the Atlanta Hawks, where he had struggled to find his footing. His ability to hit crucial shots and provide offensive impetus made him a fan favorite and a key rotational piece for the Clippers in healthier times.
However, the recurring injuries have prevented him from maintaining that level of play. While he has shown flashes of his former self with ‘a few buckets here and there,’ he has not had a sustained stretch of impressive performances this season. This decline in reliability led to limited opportunities, even surprising some observers that Coach Tyronn Lue opted to start him for three games at one point.
The Road Ahead for Bogdanović
As the offseason approaches, the Clippers are expected to decline Bogdanović’s 2026-27 team option, paving the way for his departure. The organization reportedly sees no further need for him on the roster, given his recent struggles. This decision will leave Bogdanović free to explore opportunities with other teams, potentially contenders looking for a veteran presence if he can demonstrate renewed health.
The challenge for Bogdanović will be to rebuild his value ‘from the ground up,’ a task that hinges entirely on his ability to stay healthy. His talent and skill are not in question; rather, his availability has become the predominant factor in his recent career trajectory. As Clipperholics noted, there is no blame to be assigned for his struggles in Los Angeles, as both Bogdanović and the Clippers’ training staff made concerted efforts to overcome the adversity.
The trajectory of professional athletes like Bogdan Bogdanović underscores the critical role of sustained health in an elite sports career. While talent is foundational, the ability to consistently perform at a high level is inextricably linked to physical durability, making injury management a defining factor in a player’s long-term success and team tenure.