Clippers Insist Goals Haven't Changed Amid Harden and Zubac Trades, Investigation

Clippers president Lawrence Frank says the team is still focused on winning now despite major roster moves.

Feb. 10, 2026 at 10:07am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The LA Clippers have made major roster changes, trading away James Harden and Ivica Zubac, but team president Lawrence Frank insists their goals have not changed. The Clippers say they are still focused on winning now and making the playoffs this season, even as they look to the future with acquisitions like Darius Garland and Bennedict Mathurin. Frank also addressed the ongoing NBA investigation into the team, Kawhi Leonard, and former sponsor Aspiration, saying it does not impact their daily operations.

Why it matters

The Clippers' moves show they are willing to make difficult decisions to reshape their roster, even if it means parting with star players like Harden. This signals a shift in their approach as they try to build a sustainable contender around Kawhi Leonard. The Aspiration investigation also looms over the franchise, though the team claims it is not impacting their decision-making.

The details

The Clippers traded Harden to the Cleveland Cavaliers for Darius Garland, and sent Zubac to the Indiana Pacers in a five-player deal that could net them a top-10 draft pick this year. Frank said the team is focused on winning now while also getting younger and building for the future. Garland is expected to make his Clippers debut after the All-Star break, once his foot injury has fully healed.

  • The Clippers made the trades at the 2023 NBA trade deadline.
  • Garland is expected to make his Clippers debut after the 2023 NBA All-Star break.

The players

Kawhi Leonard

The Clippers' star player who is entering the final year of his contract. The team is focused on building around him.

Darius Garland

The two-time All-Star point guard acquired by the Clippers in the trade with the Cavaliers.

Bennedict Mathurin

The 2022 NBA draft pick acquired by the Clippers in the trade with the Pacers, who is a restricted free agent this summer.

Lawrence Frank

The Clippers' president of basketball operations who discussed the team's moves and vision.

Tyronn Lue

The Clippers' head coach who will be tasked with integrating the new players and leading the team.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“'We are trying to win. Now. We're trying to win as many games as we can. We're going to keep stacking the days. And whatever that means, that's what it means.'”

— Lawrence Frank, Clippers President of Basketball Operations

“'Kawhi's a very bright guy, and understands in order to be sustainable, you have to make some really, really hard and difficult decisions.'”

— Lawrence Frank, Clippers President of Basketball Operations

“'We haven't learned anything more than we have back in September. And to be honest with you, it doesn't impact anything we do. We know it's out there. We know at some point there'll be a decision made.'”

— Lawrence Frank, Clippers President of Basketball Operations

What’s next

The judge in the Aspiration investigation case is expected to make a decision on the matter in the coming months, which could have implications for the Clippers' future.

The takeaway

The Clippers are making bold moves to reshape their roster and remain competitive in the short-term while also building for the long-term future, all while navigating the uncertainty of the ongoing Aspiration investigation. Their commitment to winning now, developing young talent, and maintaining a sustainable contender around Kawhi Leonard will be tested in the coming seasons.