Clippers guard Jordan Miller will be out at least six months after having surgery on Wednesday to repair a torn left rotator cuff that he suffered during a workout last week, the team announced.
Miller averaged 10 points on 53.1% shooting, 3.4 rebounds and 2.3 assists in 60 games last season. With the anticipated departure of star forward Kawhi Leonard, he was expected to see an increased role in 2026-27.
Miller, who signed a three-year, $15.3 million contract to stay with the Clippers in early July, however, was facing significant competition for minutes after the Clippers acquired Max Strus from the Cleveland Cavaliers in a five-team trade. Strus, a proven quality shooter, joined an already crowded field at the wing position.
“We are going to be a highly competitive team this season and Max will be a big part of it. He is a great shooter with a good feel who can handle and pass,” Clippers president of basketball operations Lawrence Frank said last week.
Miller was viewed as someone who could step in if injuries hit, but he will now move to the back of the pack.
MATHURIN MOVES ON
Bennedict Mathurin, who joined the Clippers at last season’s trade deadline, has agreed to a two-year, $16 million deal with the New Orleans Pelicans, including a player option, according to ESPN.
Shams Charania reported that Mathurin’s representatives approached the Clippers about withdrawing his $8.8M qualifying offer, but details remain murky.
Mathurin reportedly wanted a path to unrestricted free agency next summer over a long-term deal for bigger money but greater team control.
NBA insider Jake Fischer said although the Clippers had not yet withdrawn their qualifying offer, the team appears willing to work with the player and the Pelicans.
The Clippers received Mathurin, forward Isaiah Jackson, two first-round draft picks and a second-round pick in exchange for center Ivica Zubac and forward Kobe Brown. In his home debut, Mathurin scored a career high-tying 38 points off the bench against the Denver Nuggets.