Although Los Angeles Clippers star DeAndre Jordan seemingly plans to test free agency after the season, all signs indicate the 6-foot-11 center will re-sign with the team.
At 26 years old, Jordan has emerged as one of the league's premier centers. His numbers - 11.3 points, 14.7 rebounds and 2.2 blocks per game - this season are even better than they were the last season, putting him in the position to command a hefty new contract when he becomes a free agent in July. Unlike some of his peers, Jordan has said he wants to sign a new long-term contract this summer rather than a short-term one, despite the salary cap being projected to raise drastically in 2016 when the NBA's new television deal kicks in.
Jordan spoke with USA Today on Tuesday, and while he didn't deny he planned to test the market in the offseason, his interview seemed to suggest he ultimately wants to re-sign with the Clippers.
"I mean I've obviously been here seven years, and the past two have been great," he said. "Doc (Clippers coach Doc Rivers) has been my biggest supporter and the best coach I've ever had. The team is great. The guys are great. We have great camaraderie. But the free agency process is definitely going to be a fun one."
In addition to the perks of continuing to play with friends on a playoff-caliber team with the proven head coach, re-signing with Los Angeles would net Jordan the biggest payday. With the way the current Collective Bargaining Agreement is setup, the Clippers can offer him a five-year maximum deal whereas other teams can only off a four-year max. According to ESPN's Nick Borges, staying with the Clippers could earn Jordan $106.9 million over five years as opposed to $79.42 million over four years.
Los Angeles has only about $58.1 million in guaranteed salaries on the books for next season.
If Jordan were to seriously test free agency, there'd certainly be a market willing to pay him. The usual suspects - the New York Knicks and the Los Angeles Lakers - immediately come to mind.
