Los Angeles Clippers add veteran forward Grant Hill to their ranks – NBA Update
The Los Angeles Clippers have not been one of the busiest teams during the summer but they have made some quality moves that will allow them to build a very strong unit next season.
On Tuesday, the Clippers were able to acquire the services of veteran forward Grant Hill who was also reported to be in negotiations with the Los Angeles Lakers, Miami Heat and the Oklahoma City Thunder.
However Hill chose to sign with the Clippers after meeting with head coach, Vinny Del Negro. He also had dinner with Chauncey Billups and even shared a conversation or two with All-Star point guard Chris Paul, who emerged as the
new face of the franchise last season.
The details of the agreement between Hill and the Clippers have not been revealed yet however according to speculation; the veteran has come over to Hollywood on a two year deal. Hill is expected to take the role of a backup small
forward. The position is currently taken up by Caron Butler in the starting lineup.
Despite facing many setbacks in the 17 NBA years, Hill has been able to come back stronger every time. He has had trouble with all sorts of injuries, the most common being the ankle problem.
Last year though it was a knee injury that put a full stop to what was turning out to be an excellent season with the Phoenix Suns. Hill had to undergo a minor procedure in late March and was ruled out for the remainder of the
season.
Before his injury, Hill played in 49 games, starting 46 of them with an average playing time of 28.1 minutes. During that span, he averaged 10.2 points to go along with 3.5 rebounds and 2.2 assists. He would be turning 40 in the
month of October and holds a career average of 17.1 points, 6.1 rebounds and 4.2 assists – remarkable numbers, considering his age.
Grant is a prolific perimeter player and would add to the already potent shooting arsenal of the Clips. Clippers would also look to Hill to provide his experience as they continue to enhance their contention for next season.
The franchise brought Jamal Crawford and Lamar Odom this off season and have also re-signed veteran PG Chauncey Billups. The only void that remains to be filled is at the backup centre position, which was vacated after the departure
of Reggie Evans.
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