Overview

• The Clippers have only Ivica Zubac’s contract guaranteed for 2027, freeing up maximum salary cap space to pursue Antetokounmpo when his player option arrives
• Their offseason signings of Chris Paul, Bradley Beal, Brook Lopez and John Collins all feature short-term deals to maintain current competitiveness and long-term financial flexibility
• Antetokounmpo’s $175 million contract runs through 2027–28 but includes a 2027 player option, making him a coveted free agent target
• The Bucks responded by acquiring Myles Turner, Cole Anthony and Gary Harris in free agency and re-signing key role players to reinforce a two-year title window
• Rumors of interest from Lakers GM Rob Pelinka persist but are overshadowed by the Clippers’ decisive cap-clearing strategy