Clippers' Rivers envisions Stephenson as utility player, not starter
On the heels of a trade announcement between the Los Angeles Clippers and Charlotte Hornets that will see Lance Stephenson head westward to California, Clippers head coach Doc Rivers spoke about how he envisioned the enigmatic combo guard fitting into the team's roster.
Rivers, who also serves as the Clippers president of basketball operations, was the one who initiated and executed the trade - one that sends Spencer Hawes and Matt Barnes to the Hornets.
On Tuesday, in an interview on The Beast 980, an L.A. sports radio show, Rivers elaborated on his plan regarding Stephenson for the upcoming 2015-16 season.
Where we start with him is on the defensive end. I like that he can play multiple positions. … I don't know if I made the trade for him to be a starter per se. I look at him more to be a utility player that can come in and play literally three different positions.
While Rivers may not view Stephenson as a viable starter for his squad, he does believe that the New York City legend adds certain elements that the Clippers have needed in recent years.
Doc Rivers told @FredNBCLA on @TheBeast980 that Lance Stephenson helps Clippers get tougher, more athletic and improve defensively.
— Ben Bolch (@latbbolch) June 16, 2015
The man nicknamed "Born Ready" will have to prove his worth in Los Angeles, since he has one year of guaranteed money remaining on his three-year contract. The third year of his current deal, which will be 2016-17, has a team option - putting pressure on Stephenson to produce next season.