Acquiring Lance Stephenson is only the beginning for the Clips

On a surface level the trade the Clippers made for Lance Stephenson involving the removal of Matt Barnes and Spencer Hawes doesn't seen like a game-changer.  Especially with him coming off a disaster of a season with the Charlotte Hornets. However, Lance's arrival indicates the start of a new era for the Clippers along with their logo and uniform changes. A new era.

Despite peoples doubts, this could be the trade that saves the clips' future, the acquisition that finally pushes them over the top. The Clippers needed toughness and a feisty guard who could play defence and Stephenson excelled in this role in Indiana. He also brings an ability to create his own shot and handle the ball. Although these qualities dwindle during his time with the Hornets if he can re-discover his Pacer form this will be a fantastic move for the Clips, easily the best Doc Rivers has made during his rocky time as Clippers President of Basketball Operations.

It has been made clear that Stephenson wasn't suited to be a top option in an offense but maybe better as a 3rd or 4th and that's what he would be in the Clippers' clear-cut hierarchy. Stephenson's struggles last season were well known. His  production fell to just 8.2 points, 4.5 rebounds and 3.9 assists per game with 37.6 percent shooting from the field and 17.1 percent from three point range (a decline of 18 percent from the previous season).

Essentially, Stephenson’s career wasn't meant to continue in Charlotte. But it’s not as though his athleticism, versatility and defensive abilities have suddenly disappeared.

If the trade doesn't pay off and Stephen continues with his rough form then due to the fact he has a team option at the end of the season means the Clips can let him go if things go awry. This is a contract year for lance and he needs to play well if he wants a long term, stable contract. It was a move the Clippers needed to make. Lets just hope it pays off.